Serendib Signs on Seven Apprentices

Serendib Investment Limited yesterday signed on seven apprentices from The National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC).

The apprentices now will receive systematic on-job practical learning and off-job study in the printery industry for the duration of their four-year programme.

Serendib Investment is providing printery services at the former Government Printery in Vatuwaqa under the Fijian Holdings Limited. Director NTPC Isimeli Tagicakiverata said the partnership would be beneficial to both the apprentice as well as a boost to Serendib’s operations.

Good motivation

Serendib Investment chief operating officer Pradeep Mendis said this was a good motivation for other youths.

“It is rare for one to be paid while studying so make good use of this opportunity,” said Mr

Mendis.

Mr Mednis said this apprenticeship scheme has been tried and tested.

“Those who have graduated from the apprenticeship scheme, you know their good, they have hands-on experience, the qualities, skill and they have a lot of practical experience.

“They will not graduate until they have completed both their theory and practical.” Manager Apprenticeship and National Trade Test Alvin Lal said they have had 99 per cent success rate in terms of employment.

There have been a few who did not wish to continue, most of them decide to start up their own businesses.

“The fees are standard Fiji National University

rate. The apprentices don’t have to pay anything.

“The employer pays for all costs from tools, Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) to tuition.”

Meanwhile, Mr Mendis said due to COVID-19 business has been slow. He is hoping that in five to six months’ things can get back to normal. They have 65 staff members and have fortunately they have not been laid off but have had to work on reduce hours.

Mr Mendis added that Serendib Investment Limited plan to have their own training facility. “We want to address those who don’t have the qualifications and train them to be able to get some form of formal employment certification.”

Mr Mendis confirmed that there have been plans for expansion. They have new machines and are looking at another product lines. He said the company would be looking at recycled materials to make packaging materials to cater for the food industry.

Photo: Susana Hirst-Tuilau Back from left: Fiji National University Manager Apprenticeship and National Trade Test Alvin Lal, Apprentice Rogasio Rakosova, Lusiana Tavola, Miriama Rawamila, Asena Leilani, Veresa Toge, Etika Turagadrau, Savaira Lewanikeli, Fijian Holdings Limited acting chief executive officer Abilesh Rao. Sitting: Serendib Investment Limited Pradeep Mendis, Director National Training and Productivity Centre Isimeli Tagicakiverata and Seredib Limited Investment chairperson Sakuisa Raivoce during the contract signing for the seven apprentices on May 18, 2020.