Editorial: Why go Anywhere Else When You Can Create Opportunities For Yourself

The ongoing debate about Fijians leaving for the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme continues.

Reverend Ili Vunisuwai didn’t hold back as he questioned the people of Ra: why choose to go overseas when you have abundant resources and opportunities right here in Fiji?

The President of the Methodist Church of Fiji was addressing the growing trend of Fijians leaving their jobs, families, and villages.

We can’t deny the importance of seizing economic opportunities, but Reverend Vunisuwai’s perspective is equally valid.

“We have everything here in Ra. We have mountains, hills, rivers, streams, and the sea. We witness the beauty of the sun rising and setting. If we have all this, what is lacking?” Reverend Vunisuwai pondered.

Fiji undeniably offers a wealth of resources and opportunities just waiting to be harnessed.

Fields like agriculture, fishing, art, and creativity are ready for individuals with the right vision to tap into them.

However, there are challenges like limited funding and the time required to cultivate the land before reaping its benefits.

Many Fijians prefer leaving their low-paying skilled jobs to work in Australia’s meat industry, where they can earn significantly more.

This is why the World Bank’s proposal to establish a threshold income to deter excessive Fijian migration for PALM is a positive step.

While there are success stories from the PALM scheme, it’s evident that it has also brought about socio-economic issues and isn’t working equally well for everyone.

Reverend Vunisuwai highlighted that although working abroad might seem beneficial, it can lead to fractured families, out-of-wedlock births, and other challenges.

In response, the government needs to establish a policy, as previously discussed in an editorial, to streamline the application process and ensure that only deserving applicants seize these opportunities.

Collaborating with stakeholders such as the provincial council, the government can guide applicants, helping them decide whether to opt for quick money abroad or stay home to cultivate the land for longer-term benefits.

Furthermore, the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, with its increased budget in the 2023-2024 National Budget, should identify key opportunities within provincial councils, benefiting villagers and landowning units.

From there, they can foster know-how and create opportunities that truly make a difference.

Feedback: ranobab@fijisun.fj