Trade Testing Scheme; A Pathway to Success
There are no minimal educational requirements for candidates, which means that candidates with some or no formal training are entitled to demonstrate their skill level against the established standards.
By Jitesh Prasad
■ Jitesh Prasad is a senior trade test officer at Fiji National University’s Department of INational Apprenticeship and Trade Test at the National Training and Productivity Centre.
National Training and Productivity Centre’s (NTPC) National Trade Testing Scheme has played a pivotal role in the success journey of Anand Sami.
Mr Sami had travelled from Taveuni to Suva and then to New Zealand in search of a better future.
Today, he is proud of his decision to get his skills tested at NTPC, and the certification he received was a ticket to his success.
“Currently, I am working for Matamata Motor Trimmers in New Zealand,” Mr Sami proudly said.
“This would not have been made possible without having my trade skills certified at the NTPC.
“This allowed me to shine in the trade and get my work permit for New Zealand.
“In 2012, I was a bit hesitant about getting the skills certified, but then I realised the importance, and I went ahead confidently.
“This was when I was introduced to the Trade Testing Scheme by one of the Trade Test Officers, and he informed me about the advantages of having the three levels of trade test certification, which were Class 3, Class 2 and Class 1 in the Upholsterer Trade.
“I was impressed when I heard that people with experience could get certification, and there was no minimum education requirement.”
Mr Sami was a born hard worker, having worked odd hours and weekends and sacrificing his family time.
He was focused on his goals and career, which motivated him to work hard and find success.
“I used to work hard in the night to finish general upholstery like sewing garments for furniture, canvas for vehicles, different materials for gears and many more,” he said.
“Through my work experience, I managed to open up my own small business.
“I do not regret deciding to put resources into Taveuni because it was an excellent spot, and it was a perfect location to do business with less competition.
“It was a wise decision to start my business on the island because I had seen numerous occupants venturing out of Labasa to gain admittance to upholstery services.
“I went through a difficult phase, but one thing that kept me going was people who motivated me to work an extra mile if I wanted to be successful.
“Challenges and pain are the paths to progress in life.
“I do not come from a very wealthy family, and I was not smart academically, but I figured out how to remain on my feet and support my own family with their needs and wants.”
Mr Sami said those who have knowledge and experience in the trade field but do not have any qualifications must explore the opportunities provided by the NTPC.
“Trade tests are the way to move forward
and have your skills assessed.
“This will not only give you the certificate but also give you the opportunity for better employment.
“I am thankful to the NTPC for helping me explore my success. “
National Trade Testing Scheme
As an authority responsible for skills
certification, the National Trade Testing Scheme fulfils a number of tasks enabling workers in Fiji to obtain accreditation for their skills.
Whilst operating under the Trade Testing Regulations (1976) of the Training and Productivity Authority Act (formerly the Fiji National Training Act), the scheme sets the standards for certification.
It does this in consultation with representatives of employers, trade unions and relevant government bodies to ensure that the standards set are appropriate and specific to the needs of the industry.
The scheme also includes conducting tests of the participants and individuals who apply to get their skills tested and also awarding Trade Test Certificates to successful candidates.
There are three levels of testing under the scheme (as required by the 1976 Fiji National Trade Testing Regulation).
These are:
■C●ass III Assistant Tradesman Level
■C●ass II Qualified Tradesman Level
■C●ass I Supervisor Level
There are no minimal educational requirements for candidates, which means that candidates with some or no formal training are entitled to demonstrate their skill level against the established standards, provided they have the necessary trade or industry experience and knowledge in the discipline.
The scheme offers skills assessment and certification in 29 various trades, and it is highly recognised nationally and internationally as well.
Over 31,200 people have taken the opportunity to get themselves assessed, and we encourage other tradespeople to take up this opportunity.
The minimum wage rate for the three levels is regulated by the National Minimum Wage Regulations Orders 2017 (under Building, Civil and Electrical Engineering Sectorial Regulations).
Benefits of the scheme
Skills are an essential component of economic prosperity.
In reality, where competition for occupants, pay augmentations, and academic accomplishments continues to grow, endorsements offer an assumption since they are a sound, outcast assessment of one’s ability and data for a given trade.
Some of the key benefits of certification include:
■Va●idatio■ of knowledge
■I■crease marketability
■Improves reputation
■E■ha■ce credibility
Increase confidence
Increase earning power
Furthermore, industries are searching for skilled and motivated people to employ.
The National Trade Testing Scheme provides industry relevant assessment and certification so employers can rest assured that tradespeople applying for jobs actually possess the degree of skills and assist in selection and recruitment of their organisations.
Many businesses in countries and cities all over the world report a shortage of qualified tradespeople.
Even though companies have many employment opportunities, they battle to discover talented, skilled trade people to fill those positions and help bridge the gap.
For more information, contact info.ntpc@ fnu.ac.fj.