HECF WORKS WITH MINISTRIES TO RESOLVE CAREGIVER ISSUES

HECF WORKS WITH MINISTRIES TO RESOLVE CAREGIVER ISSUES

The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) today hosted a stakeholder meeting to address the growing number of caregiver graduates who are unable to find employment.

The meeting was attended by the Minister for Education, Hon. Aseri Radrodro, and the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Hon. Agni Deo Singh, along with officials from the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection, Pacific Australia Skills, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT), and various higher education institutions.

HECF has temporarily suspended caregiver training programs due to concerns about the lack of job opportunities for graduates. Many caregiving qualifications obtained in Fiji are not recognised in key labour markets such as Australia and New Zealand, making it difficult for graduates to find employment abroad.

An independent consultant was engaged to conduct a survey to better understand the issue. The final report, presented during the meeting, highlighted key findings and recommendations for the way forward. Institutions were encouraged to review the report and provide input on practical solutions.

HECF Chair, Mr. Steve Chand, said the Commission is working with international partners to find new pathways for unemployed graduates and to identify alternative areas where their skills may be applied. He also encouraged stakeholders to align their plans with the National Development Plan and Vision 2050.

Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations, Hon. Agni Deo Singh thanked the HECF for leading the consultation and expressed the government’s support for collaborative action to improve outcomes for graduates in the caregiving sector.

Minister for Education, Hon. Aseri Radrodro, acknowledged the urgency of the issue and called on higher education providers to reassess their program offerings in line with labour market needs. He encouraged institutions to diversify their courses and consider developing training programs that equip students with skills relevant to both local and international markets.

“The well-being of our students must remain at the centre of our decisions. As we review the future of aged care training, I urge providers to explore broader options that lead to real opportunities for our young people,” said Minister Radrodro.