Digital skills hub for youth: India backs Fiji tech training at Polytech

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National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology (NIELIT) Joint Registrar Himanshu Mohan (left), Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Suneet Mehta, Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga, Pacific Polytech chairperson Dr Ganesh Chand, Tui Nadi Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci and NIELIT Scientist-D Swapnali Naik at the launch of the NIELIT-Polytech Centre for Electronics and ICT at Namotomoto in Nadi. Picture: REINAL CHAND

Pacific Polytech has launched its first NIELIT Polytech Centre for Electronics and ICT, a partnership between Fiji and government of India.

Located at the Namotomoto Campus in Nadi, the centre will provide students access to programs that are aligned with international standards in electronic and information technology.

Speaking at the event this week, Minister for Justice Siromi Turaga acknowledged the government of India for their continuous bilateral partnership with Fiji.

“Through collaboration in digital education, electronics, information technology, we are strengthening a vision of a more connected, innovative, and technologically capable future,” he said.

“From humble beginnings, this institution has expanded across Fiji, with campuses in Suva, Nausori, Lautoka, Tavua, Labasa, Nadi, and Bua. I would like to also acknowledge that we did have a training program in Levuka, where about 200 students graduated.

“Through programs in trades and technology, ICT, business, hospitality, agriculture, and healthcare science, Pacific Polytech is equipping Fijians with practical, job-ready skills that support both personal success and national development.”

Mr Turaga said the establishment of the NIELIT Polytech Centre for Electronics and ICT, reflected a powerful partnership between Pacific Polytech and India.

“This cooperation will deliver significant benefits to Fiji. First, it provides access to programs that are aligned with international standards in electronic and information technology.

“Second, it strengthens our national digital capacity, ensuring that our workforce remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

“And thirdly, it opens new pathways for opportunity, particularly for young people in the expanding fields of technology and digital innovation.

“In today’s world, digital knowledge and technical skills are no longer obsolete. They are essential. Initiatives like this ensure that Fiji continues to build a workforce that is skilled and confident, that are ready to meet the challenges of the future.”