On December 19, the air at the newly established Oceania Institute of Technology (OIT) in Nadi was thick with a sense of historic accomplishment.
Among the 242 students completing their studies was 44-year-old Shaleen Lata.
As a member of the institute’s first graduating cohort, Shaleen’s success serves as a beacon of hope for adult learners across the region.
She successfully attained a Certificate in Vocational Literacy and Numeracy, specialising in front office operations.
Unlike many who enter such programs through traditional institutions, Shaleen applied for the program entirely online. This digital leap of faith led her to an intensive three-week course that challenged her skills and broadened her professional horizons.
Reflecting on her journey during the ceremony, Shaleen’s pride was unmistakable.
“I feel proud of myself today, the program lasted three weeks. It was good,” she said.
For her, the brevity of the course did not diminish its depth.
“My course was a good one because I learned so much,” she added.
The curriculum was fast-paced yet comprehensive, ensuring that graduates walked away with the practical tools necessary to enter the workforce immediately.
One of the most striking revelations of the day was the gender distribution of the pioneers: women made up a staggering 84 per cent of the graduating class.
This statistic highlights a significant trend of women taking the lead in pursuing vocational training to secure their economic independence.
Shaleen was quick to point out that women graduate numbers should serve as a powerful motivating factor for others.
“I heard that 84 per cent of the graduates are women.
“I want more women to take up these courses because it will benefit them in the long run.”
