Caregiver Training Empowers Women and Youth in Six Communities
A two-week caregiver training program aimed at empowering women and youth concluded on October 4, 2024 at Fiji National University (FNU). The program was jointly organized by the Ministry of Forestry and the National Training and Productivity Centre with funding from the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO).
The training, which began on September 23, equipped women from six communities and young school leavers with essential caregiving skills, providing them with an alternative livelihood. Participants were trained to care for the elderly and vulnerable in their villages while promoting a sense of responsibility toward their communities and environment.
Ministry of Forestry’s ITTO Project Officer in Fiji, Mr. Elimi Kurusiga said twenty participants from six ITTO project villages attended the sessions which were led by experts from FNU.
“The courses covered critical caregiving skills, enabling participants to provide compassionate and effective care,” Mr. Kurusiga said.
He said supported by the Japanese Government, the initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Forestry and ITTO.
“It seeks to empower women through skill development while addressing environmental challenges, particularly in coastal communities,” Mr. Kurusiga said.
This project is part of a broader effort to restore mangrove ecosystems in the Rewa and Tailevu Deltas while creating sustainable opportunities for women in these areas.
In his closing remarks, Social Welfare Officer John Khan expressed his gratitude to ITTO, the Ministry of Forestry and FNU for their support and expertise.
“Your knowledge has laid a solid foundation for our caregivers, equipping them with the essential skills needed to make a difference,” he said.
The Ministry of Health also played a key role by supporting the training and facilitating practical attachments for participants. These attachments, necessary for caregiver certification, will take place from October 21 to November 1, 2024.
Mr. Khan urged participants to make the most of their hands-on experience during the attachment phase, emphasizing the importance of their role in promoting the health and well-being of their communities.
This caregiver training program is part of a larger initiative to provide sustainable livelihoods, enhance community care and empower women in leadership roles. Plans are underway to expand similar programs to other communities.
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