A stakeholder meeting was held today by the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) to address the growing issue of an oversupply of caregiver graduates. Key participants included Hon. Aseri Radrodro, Minister for Education; Hon. Agni Deo Singh, Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Industrial Relations; Mr. Steve Chand, HECF Chair; as well as representatives from the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection, Pacific Australia Skills, the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT) of Australia, and various higher education providers.
The HECF has temporarily suspended caregiver training programs in educational institutions due to concerns about the lack of employment opportunities for graduates in Fiji. Currently, students holding caregiving certificates face a difficult job market, as these qualifications are not internationally recognized, particularly in countries like New Zealand and Australia, where the demand for caregivers is higher.
An independent consultant conducted a survey to better understand the issue, and the final report was presented at the meeting, offering valuable insights. Higher education institutions were encouraged to review the findings and provide feedback.
Mr. Steve Chand explained that the HECF has been actively collaborating with bilateral partners to explore pathways for unemployed caregiver graduates and to find ways to redirect their skills into other in-demand sectors.
Mr. Chand suggested that all stakeholders align with the NDP/Vision 2050, considering the national skills gap. Minister Radrodro urged education providers to diversify their course offerings while the future of aged care training is under review. He emphasized the importance of exploring alternative programs that could equip students with marketable skills.
Hon. Agni Deo Singh expressed gratitude to the HECF for initiating the discussion and acknowledged the collective effort required from all stakeholders to address the challenges facing the caregiving sector in Fiji. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with all involved parties to find a sustainable solution.
