Transforming Fiji's workforce: ILO and partners launch pioneering supervisor training for quality apprenticeships

NASINU, FIJI (ILO News) – A groundbreaking pilot training programme designed to empower in-company supervisors with the essential skills needed to nurture quality apprenticeship experiences has been launched by the International Labour Organization (ILO), in collaboration with the Global Apprenticeship Network Australia (GAN) and the Fiji National University’s National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC).

The Quality Apprenticeship Transformation initiative marks a pivotal moment in the development of apprenticeship programmes in the Pacific, ensuring they align with industry standards and effectively respond to the evolving demands of the labour market.

Taking place at the Fiji National University’s (FNU) Nasinu Campus, the comprehensive programme aims to equip supervisors with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively mentor and guide apprentices, enabling them to develop the skills crucial for future career success. It underscores the vital role that quality apprenticeships play in fostering sustainable economic development and social inclusion in labour markets in the region, which are facing increasingly intensifying skills shortages in vocational occupations.

Emphasizing FNU’s commitment to promoting and continuously strengthening Apprenticeships in Fiji, Pro-Vice-Chancellor TVET, Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata said, “FNU welcomes new employers into the scheme and is expanding apprenticeship offerings to include areas such as information technology, occupational health and safety, hospitality, white-collar occupations, and higher-degree apprenticeships.”

Martin Wandera, Director of the ILO Office for Pacific Island Countries highlighted how apprenticeships are much more than mere training programmes calling them, “transformative pathways that connect the aspirations of our youth with the needs of our industries.”

“Quality supervision is at the heart of this transformation,” he added.

The training will feature a series of interactive sessions led by experts in vocational training and apprenticeship systems from GAN’s Australia chapter. Participants will engage in insightful discussions around how to be a supervisor of apprentices, training and learning at work as well as assessing apprentices. It also covers issues including workplace safety, bullying, harassment, and non-discrimination.

“Skilled supervisors are mentors and role models, shaping the next generation of workers with knowledge, skills and inspiration. Beyond technical training, supervisors instil the professional values, discipline and work ethic that are vital for apprentices’ personal and professional development,” Dr Isimeli said.

Stating that we are in a “skills and labour crisis”, Edward Bernard, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) emphasized that this pilot training comes at a crucial time. “Not only are Fijian employers not able to get the number of workers they need, they are also not getting the quality of workers, with the right knowledge, skills and behaviours,” he said.

ILO Country Director Martin Wandera added how the initiative would help meet this challenge.

“Addressing the increasing demand for skilled workers through initiatives like the Quality Apprenticeship Transformation, is imperative to addressing one of Fiji’s main obstacles to economic development. By partnering with FNU, the ILO and GAN are committed to tailoring the training to meet the unique needs of employers and the workforce in Fiji, ensuring that apprenticeship programs are both relevant and impactful,” he said.