Youth provided with food and beverage service skills
Ministry aims to empower the youth sector in Fiji so that they are able to contribute to the continuing economic growth of the country.
Around 50 youths attended a twoweek training in restaurant and bar services held in Nadi and Lautoka respectively.
The training was organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and facilitated by Pasifika Institute of Tourism Studies. Minister for Youth and Sports Laisenia Tuitubou, said the training aimed to provide a second chance to marginalised youths.
“The Ministry, through our non-formal education programs, provides multiple types of training to the disadvantaged youths,” Mr Tuitubou said.
“The main objective is to provide all youths with equal employment opportunities and a chance to create and maintain a sustainable livelihood.”
Mr Tuitubou added that the Ministry aims to empower the youth sector in Fiji so that they are able to contribute to the continuing economic growth of the country. “We have youths who have an abundance of talent in music, arts, hospitality, carpentry and other trades who have dropped out of the formal education setting for various reasons” Mr Tuitubou said. “Through this training, we are trying to enhance their knowledge so that they are able to find employment and contribute towards the growth of our nation.”
One of the participants, Marisela Adiwaqanivanua, an unemployed youth from Waiyavi Lautoka, said she was appreciative of the training provided.
“I really appreciate the initiative by the Ministry of Youth and Sports in sponsoring the training relieving us from the financial burden and giving us the second chance with employable skills in the tourism industry,” she said.
Another youth participant Epeli Nakalevu said: “The two weeks training provided me with the confidence, knowledge and skills to work in the tourism industry. “It was my desire at one time; I will work in the tourism industry where I can meet a lot of people and assist in making Fiji the best tourist destination.”