THE Government has restructured the 1 per cent levy administered through the Fiji National University to strengthen national workforce training and align skills development with labour market demands.
Presenting the 2026-2027 National Budget yesterday, Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel said the revised arrangement would significantly increase funding for training programs while phasing out the Private General Practitioners (GP) Scheme.
He said the most significant change would see the Training Grant Scheme allocation increase fivefold.
“Under the revised arrangement, the allocation for the Training Grant Scheme will increase from 0.1 per cent to 0.5 per cent through the phased withdrawal of the Private General Practitioners (GP) Scheme,” Mr Immanuel said.
“Existing resources within the GP Trust Fund will be utilised to support the transition.”
He outlined the revised levy structure, which included allocations to key institutions responsible for workplace safety, training and public sector development.
“The revised levy structure will be as follows: Accident Compensation Commission Fiji (ACCF) – 0.4 per cent; Training Grant Scheme — increased from 0.1 per cent to 0.5 per cent; and Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service (FLIPS) – 0.1 per cent.”
Mr Immanuel said the reforms were designed to improve access to training opportunities and strengthen workforce capabilities across sectors.
“This measure is intended to enhance access to training opportunities, improve workforce capabilities and better align skills development programs with the needs of the labour market.”
He also announced a new incentive to encourage private sector investment in training infrastructure.
Mr Immanuel said the initiative would support the development of human capital and ensure Fiji’s workforce is equipped to meet the demands of a changing economy.
“The measure is aimed at encouraging investment in skills development infrastructure, strengthening workforce capabilities and supporting the long-term human capital needs of the economy.”
