Equipping young Fijians for success

Listen to this article:

Youths get assistance during the International Peace Day Career Fair at the Suva’s Civic Centre on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

YOUNG Fijians need more than qualifications to secure employment, with confidence, discipline and adaptability increasingly important in today’s workforce.

This was the message from Fiji National University outreach specialist Akini Tabua during the International Day of Peace Career Fair at Suva’s Civic Centre on Tuesday.

Mr Tabua said the university’s focus was on equipping young people with practical skills and experience.

“We’re here today to showcase our programs because at FNU our focus is on equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and practical experience they need to succeed in today’s workforce,” he said.

He said FNU offered programs across business, technology, health, education, agriculture, engineering, trades and other professional fields.

Mr Tabua said education must go beyond certificates.

“Education is not just about getting qualifications, it’s about developing confidence, discipline, problem solving skills, communication and ability to adapt and have qualities that employers are looking for.”

He thanked the Ministry of Youth and Sports and (UNFPA ) United Nations and Populations Fund for bringing young people, employers, and government services together through the Peace Day career fair.

“I’d like to thank the Ministry of Youth and Sports and UNFPA for bringing people together.”

Youths get assistance during the International Peace Day Career Fair at the Suva’s Civic Centre on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

From left, Ateca Goneivalu, Napolioni Qereqeretabua, Elisabeta Waqanidrola, Mere Bose and Temalesi Potea at Suva Civic Centre.

From left, Mosese Seniua, Unaisi Mokui, Ana Dauloloma, Talei Christine and Timoci Lewai during the International Peace Day Career Fair at the Suva Civic Centre on Tuesday. Pictures: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

From left, Ifereimi Togayali, Usaia Bulileka and Tomasi Vadei at the Suva Civic Centre.

Etuate Bari, left, and Masataka Yao in Suva.

From left, Mererai Nabainivalu, Prishika Priyanka, Peniana Dilutunavua and Ashneel Raj at the Civic Centre in Suva.

From left, Yasena Fong, and Ansika Swamy.

Asneel Sen, left, and Monika Ram.