TVET now a first-choice career pathway: Radrodro
Students from Years 9 to 13 shine in construction, agriculture, hospitality and more at national TVET exposition in Suva.
Thursday 25 September 2025 | 08:00
Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro (left) and Australian High Commissioner Peter Roberts share a light moment during the TVET Skills Fair and Careers Exposition at Suva’s National Gymnasium on September 25, 2025.
Photo: Ronald Kumar
Technical and Vocation Education and Training (TVET) is now a first-choice pathway for employment and nation building, not a second choice.
This was the strong message from Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro at the opening of Fiji’s inaugural TVET Skills Fair and Careers Exposition at the
National Gymnasium in Suva today.
The two-day event showcases skills and talents of TVET students from Years 9 to 13 and vocational streams under the theme “Showcasing Fijian Skills for a
Sustainable Future – Our Strength, Our Achievement.”
Mr Radrodro said the ministry had renewed its emphasis on skills-based education to meet industry needs and strengthen school-to-work relationships.
“The Ministry has renewed its emphasis on skills-based education, positioning TVET not as a second option, but also as a first choice pathway for employment, entrepreneurship and for nation building,” he said.
Mr Radrodro highlighted ongoing reforms including the Micro Qualifications Programme, vocational technology introduction, the Try’a Skill Partnership with the University of the South Pacific, and the TVET First Initiative with Fiji National University.
He said the skills fair creates a platform for students to shine in areas such as construction, agriculture, hospitality, automotive work and creative industries.
“It recognises that while not all students will follow the same academic path, every student deserves a chance to succeed,” Mr Radrodro said.
Australian High Commissioner Peter Roberts acknowledged Australia’s continued support through the new Pacific Australia Skills programme, which replaces the concluded Australian Pacific Training Coalition (APTC).
Under the previous programme, over 7000 Fijians graduated with full qualifications while 5784 others upskilled through short courses.
The event also provides students with opportunities to participate in the ministry’s Viti Showcase and Skills Fair student-to-work competition, preparing
the best talent for national, regional and global opportunities.
The fair continues tomorrow.
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