THE Ministry of Commerce and Business Development now has a new permanent secretary in Dr Radika Kumar.
Dr Kumar officially took up office last Monday (May 4), armed with many years of local and international experience working in the areas of economics, trade, business, and government leadership.
According to the Government, she has a very strong education background, with a PhD in Economics, an MBA, and other qualifications in business, finance, artificial intelligence, and education.
She also studied at the University of Oxford and the University of the South Pacific. Dr Kumar worked for more than 18 years in important roles, including with the Government, the United Nations, the World Trade Organisation in Geneva, and the Commonwealth Secretariat.
She recently met ministry staff at the headquarters, and those who joined through Zoom, and on Tuesday met Minister Esrom Immanuel. She told staff members of her vision for a happy and supportive workplace where everyone felt respected and valued; and encouraged them to talk openly if they were facing problems at work or at home.
“I want to create a workplace where people enjoy coming to work and where we help each other,” Dr Kumar was quoted saying in a Government statement.
She also emphasised the importance of family and that staff members should not feel alone during difficult times. She said every worker is important and has something valuable to contribute to the ministry.
Dr Kumar said she was honoured to return home and serve Fiji, adding it was her hope to help build a stronger economy, where small businesses were supported, digital innovation were encouraged, and opportunities created for all communities in the country.
