Suva, March 27 – More than 6o youths of the district of Tokaimalo in Ra are attending a week-long carpentry training course at Namaveikai village.
The training is organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports in collaboration with the Technical College of Fiji.
“Through this needs-based training or assistance, Government wishes to deliver to members of the public, especially our young people, a means to create a sustainable livelihood,” said Minister for Youth and Sports, Hon. Laisenia Tuitubou.
Hon. Tuitubou, while opening the training at Namaveikai village this morning, told the participants: “Skills you will acquire will help you and your community rebuild your homes and lives, and if you are innovative, a small group of carpenters can be formed as a company.”
“Government wishes to provide such skills not only for you to empower yourselves with some skills, but that you may also find employment and if possible to create employment for other youths,” said Tuitubou.
Youth trainees came from 10 villages of Tokaimalo district and will be building some houses with the district this week as part of their practical training.
Tokaimalo district rep to the Provincial Council, Peni Ravoka said: “Close to 500 homes were destroyed by TC Winston last year and so far, only 8 new houses have been built as replacements.”
“This training will really speed up the re-building of many more houses since most materials are readily available,” said Ravoka.
“There is a lack of skilled carpenters in Tokaimalo and we are grateful to the Ministry for meeting our needs through supporting this training,” said Peni.
However, Hon Tuitubou has congratulated three female trainees saying; “You are not alone in your venture to attend this training since it is a male dominated trade.”
“Several females attended a similar training in Koro and completed it successfully and there are also countless women carpenters out there around the world, so I encourage you to prove yourselves and show the men that you can also become a builder,” said Tuitubou.