Push to strengthen TVET to tackle youth unemployment, skills gaps

Fiji is strengthening technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to address youth unemployment, rising social challenges and critical skills shortages nationwide.

Speaking at the Fiji National University (FNU) National Technical and Vocational Education and Training Forum 2026 at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau, Nadi, today, leaders warned that failure to invest in young people could deepen the country’s social and economic challenges.

Officiating at the forum, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru said rising school dropout rates and unemployment were warning signs of a growing crisis.

“These are not just statistics. They are symptoms of a crisis that must be met not only with policy, but with investment,” Mr Saukuru said.

He revealed that between 2019 and 2023, about 4589 students failed to complete basic education, while issues such as drug abuse, homelessness and youth crime continued to increase.

“If we underinvest in youth development, we risk creating a lost generation,” he said.

Mr Saukuru highlighted Government efforts through youth training centres and skills programmes aimed at giving young people second chances.

“We want them to know that it is never too late to learn, to grow and to succeed,” he said, noting successful partnerships with FNU.

FNU Vice-Chancellor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba stressed the importance of aligning education with national development priorities.

“TVET is not only about access to education, but it is about dignity, empowerment and unlocking human potential,” Dr Nabobo-Baba said.

She said more than 69,000 learners graduated from TVET programmes between 2019 and 2024, underscoring the sector’s role in workforce development.

Chief guest Ratu Luke Dawai, brother of the Tui Nadi, called for stronger collaboration and warned of skilled labour migration.

“We must ensure we are preparing our people for the jobs of tomorrow while retaining talent for national development,” Ratu Luke said.

He said skills development was a national priority requiring continuous partnership across sectors.

The forum brought together more than 120 stakeholders to discuss workforce readiness, inclusivity and future-focused training as Fiji works to build a resilient and competitive economy.