THANK you for giving us another chance! These were the words uttered by Leone Niumataiwalu, 42, of Sabeto Village in Nadi after graduating in the Tour Guiding Fundamentals course at the Fiji National University Namaka campus.
Mr Niumataiwalu was among 46 people, most of whom were youths, who once faced challenges on the streets and were sponsored by the Ministry of Youth and Sports to undertake the two-day training.
“This day marks a new chapter for us youths and we are really grateful,” Mr Niumataiwalu said.
“Thank you for giving us another chance and the opportunity to attend training at the Fiji National University.”
Officiating at the graduation ceremony, Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru commended the youths for transforming their futures through dedication, hard work and the training provided by the ministry.
“These youths once faced challenges on the streets, but today, they stand here as proof that resilience and opportunity can change lives,” Mr Saukuru said.
“Through the generous support of the Fiji National University Namaka Campus, especially the head of School for Tourism, Hospitality and Travel and her dedicated team, you have gained valuable skills in barbering, baking and patisserie, and tour guiding — skills that open doors to employment and entrepreneurship.
“On that note, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the head of School for Tourism, Hospitality and Travel at Fiji National University Namaka Campus and her team for their unwavering support in this worthy cause. It is through their guidance and expertise that these youths have been able to acquire the necessary skills to secure a brighter future for themselves.
“I commend all of you for your commitment to learning and growth. Out of the 46 youths, nine have already secured full-time employment, and some are still in their probation or training phases. Additionally, eight youths are engaged part-time at Tiko, and two are furthering their education through a five-month agricultural production course at the Nasau Youth Training Centre.”
Mr Saukuru emphasised these were steps the ministry was undertaking to ensure youths received the best opportunities available.
“This is especially for youth who are marginalised in our society.
“In providing platforms to upgrade their lives, the ministry has designed various informal training programs to empower them.
“These are carried out across four divisions and are based on the specific training needs. In doing so, we are fulfilling one of our core functions — empowering young Fijians to explore and utilise their abilities and potential to create an enabling environment for sustainable livelihoods.”
