In a Statement published in the FijiLive website, the so-called minister for Youth made an undertaking that vacancies created after the removal of civil servants over the age of 55 will be filled by graduates of the National Youth Service Scheme.
As long as new recruits meet the Public Service Commission requirements we as a youth advocacy group support the call.
There is a large number of young people in Fiji, in fact 68% of Fiji’s population is between the age of 15 to 30. So Fiji has a significant youth population.
This population is also very disadvantaged and disengaged.
Government programs should be focused on addressing youth issues and including youths in many leadership training and skills sharing responsibilities. Finding appropriate employment opportunities and enhancing productivity in the informal sector is an immediate action this government should take.
The 1997 Constitution (which we believe to still be in place) makes provisions for Social Justice, and we as a youth advocacy group have been pushing youth issues onto this government’s agenda. Having youth taken care of under the clause of Social Justice may need to happen soon if our leaders are to save the future of this nation. Adhering to democratic principles and International Conventions on Justice, Governance, Youth and Human Rights are also a necessity.
Filipe Bole also made an undertaking that Youth who enter the NYSS will be trained in Civil Service Cadre and prepared for the PSC. Such a move will isolate other persons who are better qualified to take up positions in the Civil Service. This cannot happen and the fact that the interim minister is making such a promise and assuming the role of the PSC in employing and training recruits is a worry.
Graduates and even applicants of the NYSS should be highly considered to take up posts in the Civil Service if they meet requirements and are qualified. However, youths outside of the NYSS program should also be given priority and employment focused solely on merit rather than direct participation in government programs or if they are employed by the Security Forces in Fiji.
For further information - Peter Waqavonovono - 714 8480