Page 18 - Islands Business October 2024 edition

Human Resources Human Resources

GREEN SKILLS, WELLNESS, AND DIGITAL

PROFICIENCY

By Prema Priyanka as highlighted by Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Manoa
Kamikamica, who sees well-being as a crucial retention
As Pacific Island nations navigate rapid economic changes, strategy.
the demand for “green skills” is on the rise. “We’re creating an environment where performance is
Institutions and human resource sectors across the region rewarded and well-being is prioritised, helping to keep our
are evolving to address immediate challenges, such as skilled workers in Fiji,” he explains.
retaining talent amid high emigration, while also preparing for Countries like Fiji, Samoa, and the Solomon Islands are
a future driven by sustainability and digital innovation. committed to ambitious environmental goals, aiming to
Sheileshni Nair, Head of Training at the Fiji National reduce carbon emissions and protect biodiversity.
University’s National Training & Productivity Centre (NTPC), In this context, recruitment agencies are on the lookout for
emphasises the importance of green skills in today’s job candidates who possess both technical expertise and a strong
market. sense of environmental responsibility.
“We need to equip our workforce with the tools to thrive in Nair notes: “The job market is evolving, demanding
a changing economy,” she tates. competencies that blend technical skills with environmental
Across the Pacific, organisations and recruiters are rising stewardship — whether it’s energy efficiency in traditional
to the challenge, tasked with building a workforce that not roles or expertise in sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism.”
only adapts to global sustainability trends but also fosters an NTPC’s green training programmes, particularly in
inclusive and health-conscious workplace culture. construction and agriculture, exemplify this approach.
This dual focus is critical for sustainable economic growth, Nair describes how local vocational training is aligning with

18 Islands Business, October 2024