Chiefs to Champion Higher Education in Ba Province

Two prominent chiefs from Ba Province, Momo Levu naTui Sabeto, Rt Viliame Mataitoga and Momo na Tui Nawaka, Rt Joeli Bulu Derenalagi have enthusiastically agreed to champion the cause of higher education in their region. This endorsement follows a meeting held this week with the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), during which the chiefs pledged their support.

HECF Chair, Steve Chand, made the traditional approach through the Commissioner Western Office and the Provincial Council Office to secure this vital backing.

“ The involvement of these respected chiefs is seen as a crucial step in driving the initiative forward. As cultural and community leaders, their influence will not only help raise awareness of the importance of education but also encourage wider community participation, “ described Mr Chand.  “Their endorsement is expected to strengthen the acceptance of higher education initiatives, especially in promoting Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) opportunities to address Fiji’s growing skills shortage.” Moreover, the chiefs’ advocacy will play a key role in promoting the proposed Provincial Council training institutions.

Tui Nawaka, Ratu Derenalagi, who also serves as the Chair of the Ba Provincial Education Committee, is eager to spearhead these initiatives, as the Ba Province in its last meeting aims to empower its people through enhanced education and training development.

“We may own vast natural resources, but it is crucial that we also empower our human resources,” stated Ratu Derenalagi.

The Momo Levu na Tui Sabeto, Ratu Mataitoga, emphasized the importance of education in safeguarding the future of Ba Province’s youth, particularly school leavers. He noted that they will be given second chances through tailored education programs brought directly to their communities, ensuring greater accessibility and opportunities for growth.

While the two chiefs have agreed to be champions of higher education, they will collaborate closely with the Provincial Council and the Higher Education Commission Fiji to implement strategies that promote education and training.

HECF Collaboration With Methodist Church

The Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), Mr. Steve Chand, met with the President of the Methodist Church in Fiji, Rev. Dr. Semisi Turagavou, and his team. Accompanying Rev. Dr. Turagavou were Rev. Sitiveni Kua, Secretary of Christian Citizenship and Social Services, and Mr. Kitione Radrodro, Secretary of the Education Committee.

They discussed strategic interventions aimed at utilizing education and training to assist young people in the community and support the rehabilitation of Methodist inmates, who currently represent the largest group of inmates in Fiji’s correctional facilities.

They also explored how Methodist Division Circuit Schools could incorporate Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs into their curriculum.

This was their first meeting, with plans to have more discussions in the future.