The Ministry of Education has achieved a significant milestone by registering its TVET section under the Fiji Higher Education Act 2008, allowing it to offer National Qualifications in secondary schools. This notable event was marked by the Permanent Secretary for Education, Ms. Selina Kuruleca, who accepted the certificate from the Chairman of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), Mr. Steve Chand.
With this registration, the Ministry of Education joins other registered Higher Education Institutions in HECF’s commitment to enhancing educational standards and expanding opportunities for secondary school students, particularly in skills education.
Students choosing the TVET pathway will now have the opportunity to graduate from secondary schools with National Certificates at levels 1 and 2 and can pursue Level 3 at vocational centers or other higher education institutions.
Ms. Kuruleca expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm, stating, “This certification is a testament to our ongoing efforts to elevate educational quality and accessibility. We are dedicated to providing our students with qualifications that will open doors to further education and employment opportunities both locally and internationally.”
Mr. Chand congratulated the Ministry, emphasizing the importance of this advancement. “The ability of secondary schools to offer national qualifications will significantly enrich the educational landscape in Fiji. This move will provide students with a more robust and comprehensive education, preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.”
Four secondary schools—Tavua College, Nasinu Muslim College, Penang Sangam College, and Swami Vivekananda College—have been quality assured by HECF to deliver National Qualifications in cookery, baking and patisserie, hospitality, front office management, agriculture, carpentry, automotive mechanics, and information technology. The Ministry of Education will continue to collaborate with other secondary schools to help them meet the rigorous criteria established by HECF.
~End~
