Training Improves Business Continuity

Of 2,200 small and medium businesses that registered during the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately 10% highlighted the importance of ongoing training to aid business continuity.

Training was also key in areas of business management and diversification, Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, Faiyaz Koya said.

Speaking during the launch of a three-day Train the Trainers workshop at the I-Taukei Trust Fund Board Centre in Suva, he said the standard of training was designed to raise the bar for recipients and trainers alike.

“There is a demand for business related training, particularly at the community grass root levels,” Mr Koya said.

“Continued training and upskilling contributes to the resilience and growth of businesses, whether it be a large entity or an micro small medium enterprises (MSME)."

“As trainers, your knowledge and direction will greatly boost business development, and ultimately our economic recovery efforts."

“You’ll need to make the most of every opportunity you get because it’s you who will now shape the minds of others.”

Thirty trainers with corporate background, make up the participants of this week’s session.

Training Sessions

The ministry undertook 88 training sessions, reaching more than 2,250 Fijians, last year.

Mr Koya said the sessions were mainly community-based.

This was where the most support was needed.

Last week in Lautoka, 14 local business trainers were upskilled.

International Management trainer, Steve Cordeiro, said pandemic created opportunities for great innovation, and a chance to think outside the box.

Training was important in upskilling, in order to move forward after the COVID-19 pandemic, he said.

“They cannot bring their knowledge and past experience to move forward, as they need new strategies and innovative ideas to keep their business operating and their customers engaged,” Mr Cordeiro said.

A First

Meanwhile, I-Taukei Trust Fund Acting Senior Programme Specialist, Unaisi Manulevu, a first-timer to the event said she grabbed the opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs.

“I am hoping to learn how to use the tools and techniques to be able to set up a successful business, and become a successful entrepreneur."

“The pandemic has really given us some creative ideas about how to explore some untapped potential in asset."

“This training will also equip us to be accredited trainers of entrepreneurs.”

Feedback: laisa.kabulevu@fijisun.com.fj