Parents must move away from the outdated belief that technical and vocational education and training (TVET) is only an option for students who under-perform academically.
This was the message from Dean of the College of Engineering, Technical Vocational Education and Training (CETVET) at the Fiji National University (FNU), Salabogi Mavoa, who said a change in mind-set was needed to fully embrace the value of TVET.
“Parents need to change their mind-set around TVET,” Mr Mavoa said.
“People think that they have to have a degree to succeed in life but that’s not the reality.”
He said FNU currently had about 4000 students enrolled in engineering programs, with the capacity to take more.
“The quality of TVET has changed,” he said.
“Many students across the country excel in more practical work than in theory. Here at the College of Engineering, we provide both hands-on experience and the theoretical components.”
Mr Mavoa emphasised that TVET was not a “drop-out” alternative but a pathway for students who were naturally inclined toward practical, skills-based learning.
He said FNU was working closely with the Ministry of Education to promote TVET in schools and raise awareness among students and parents.
“The current engagement we have going on is the TVET First program.
“We have five schools at the moment bringing their Year 11 students to learn about TVET and engineering here at FNU.”
According to Mr Mavoa, initiatives like these were crucial to helping young people make informed decisions about their future and to recognise the opportunities available through vocational and technical education.