Thirty-two recruits of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) were sent home this week after an administrative oversight led to more candidates being accepted into the Basic Recruit Training Course than the training facility could accommodate.
In a public statement, the RFMF acknowledged that 183 applicants had been announced as successful, despite the Force Training Group (FTG) only having capacity for 151 recruits.
The discrepancy resulted in 32 individuals, many of whom travelled from remote and outer islands, being turned away upon arrival at the training camp in Nasinu.
“This regrettable error has caused confusion and disappointment,” the RFMF said.
“We deeply regret this situation and extend our sincere apologies to the affected candidates and their families.”
The military attributed the incident to an administrative lapse during the selection process and cited existing training load pressures as a reason for not being able to accommodate all successful applicants.
FTG is currently delivering several other RFMF training programs so expanding capacity, according to the statement, would compromise safety and the quality of instruction.
In an effort to rectify the situation, the RFMF confirmed all 32 affected individuals would be given first priority for the next Basic Recruit Training Course, designated 2/25, scheduled for August 2025 under the new financial year.
These candidates will not need to reapply and their current medical clearances will remain valid.
“We also extend this assurance to any other eligible candidates whose names may have been inadvertently left off the current list despite meeting all requirements.
“They too will be prioritised in the next recruitment intake.
“We encourage all affected individuals to maintain their physical fitness and continue to refrain from the use of illegal substances, as these remain essential criteria for enlistment.”
