A $14 million FIJI Water and Neptune Pacific Career Centre will provide critical hands-on training for students and employees in the marine and manufacturing sectors.
The centre, which will be a marine and manufacturing training facility at the Fiji National University, will not only provide critical hands-on training but also provide industrial skill development and academic certification.
The announcement was made by the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, the FNU vice-chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba and The Wonderful Company executive vice president Craig Cooper last month at the Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies.
According to Neptune Pacific Direct Line (NPDL), the philanthropic investment in Fiji is the latest by Stewart and Lynda Resnick, co-owners of The Wonderful Company, the parent company to both FIJI Water and Neptune Pacific.
NPDL, in a statement, highlighted that the establishment of the FIJI Water and Neptune Pacific Career Centre emerged after research and discussions between FIJI Water, Neptune Pacific and FNU.
The research and discussions revealed a significant gap in the fundamental industrial skills required for the marine and manufacturing sectors. As a result, the centre has been designed to create a robust pipeline of highly skilled career openings that will offer students in Fiji the opportunity to take technical and management courses focused on a wide variety of industrial skills.
NPDL stated that upon completion of the core curriculum or following the completion of a specialised training pathway, students would then receive accreditation, certification and academic credits for their coursework.
“This investment marks a pivotal step toward a brighter future for Fiji, contributing to long-term economic growth that supports the region’s development. We’re thrilled to partner with FIJI Water and Neptune Pacific to elevate Fiji’s position as a hub for marine and manufacturing excellence in the South Pacific,” FNU vice-chancellor, Prof Nabobo-Baba said during the announcement.
“This facility will offer a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on real-world applications to over 400 students in the next 10 years and beyond.
“It’s a bold step forward for Fiji to ensure students learn the essential skills required and grow their potential to meet the rapidly evolving demands of the local and international job market. It will create job opportunities and strengthen Fiji economically.”
The Wonderful Company, executive vice president, Craig Cooper said the demand for skilled workers in marine, manufacturing and related industries has never been greater.
“This is one of the many reasons we’re proud to invest in education and workforce development in Fiji.
“This career centre will be a model for maritime and manufacturing training and career development and provide a culture of continuous learning and innovation that will enable graduates to thrive in today’s competitive environment.
“On behalf of everyone at FIJI Water and Neptune Pacific, we’re thrilled to collaborate with the FNU on this important initiative. The Resnicks and our entire company are deeply committed to Fiji, and we are pleased to be part of a new initiative to ensure Fiji thrives for generations to come.”
NPDL said Carol Watkins has been appointed as the Career Centre director, effective from November 1.
