130 Vatulele men, women graduate from maritime safety and engine repair training

More than 130 men and women of Vatulele have gained nationally recognised maritime qualifications under a community-based programme designed to improve safety at sea, strengthen livelihoods and build practical marine skills.

A total of 83 participants graduated with Boat Master Licence and Restricted Master Class 6 certification, while another 47, including three women, completed Yamaha outboard engine repair and maintenance training.

The graduates also received safety kits and toolboxes to help them apply their new skills in their communities.

The training formed part of the Solesolevaki ni Veitaqomaki initiative, a community-based approach to maritime safety and security led by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with support from the United Kingdom Government, in partnership with the Government and national stakeholders.

Grounded in the iTaukei principle of solesolevaki, or working together for the common good, the initiative brought together Government agencies, the Vanua, the Lotu and communities to strengthen maritime safety, improve livelihoods and enhance links between island communities and national authorities.

"Safer maritime communities are communities that are able to sustain their livelihood. We should continue participation. When women and young people have access to specialised training, the benefits extend beyond the community and individual," UNDP Pacific Deputy Resident Representative Abduvakkos Abdurahmanov said.

The programme also encouraged communities to report unusual or suspicious activity through established channels, while investigations and enforcement remain the responsibility of the relevant authorities.

"We have committed ourselves to a unique platform in building lives, enriching lives, improving our livelihood and, most importantly, ensuring that our homes, our villages and our nation, beautiful Fiji, are safe," Minister for Policing and Communications Ioane Naivalurua said.

The training aimed to strengthen safe and responsible vessel operation, build local capacity to maintain and repair boats and engines, reduce reliance on external repair services, support maritime livelihoods and improve awareness of maritime safety and security.

"These qualifications are practical skills that improve safety at sea, strengthen livelihoods and create opportunities for future generations.

"This project will help Fiji respond to growing regional challenges, drug trafficking, illegal fishing and climate-related issues," British Deputy High Commissioner to Fiji Michael Moody said.

UNDP implemented the initiative in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force, Republic of Fiji Navy, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and CATD Nadave.