Navuso villager Ratu Apenisa Qiolevu feels blessed to have been chosen as a representative of Naitasiri Province to undergo the Vuli ni Sausavou training.
The program, conducted at the Nadave Centre for Appropriate Technology and Development and organised by the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, aims to equip young chiefs from various provinces with essential skills in traditional leadership and good governance.
Ratu Apenisa was one of 24 graduates who received their certificates at the iTaukei Affairs Ministry ground in Nasova, Suva on Friday.
“First of all I would like to thank God for his guidance and provision in my life,” he said.
“This training has been an eye-opener for us. It ensured we received training on becoming leaders of tomorrow.
“We hope to make use of what we have learned during the sixweek course at Nadave and apply it in our villages.”
The program involved two weeks of classes and one month of community work. Officiating at the event, iTaukei Affairs Minister Ifereimi Vasu reminded the graduates of the significance of their roles as traditional leaders and how the program would enhance their capabilities in effectively governing their province.
“This training prepares you for the future and enhances your important role as traditional leaders,” he said.
“Good leadership is the key to bringing about prosperity and uplifting your standard of living.”
Mr Vasu urged the graduates to be proactive in driving change.
“With the rise in the cost of living, this training will help to subsidise income in your villages and your yasana,” he added.
Naitasiri was the seventh province to take up the program after Tailevu, Namosi, Serua, Ba, Nadroga and Navosa.
