Paravet graduates have been reminded that they need to be inclusive in modernising Fiji’s agricultural sector, a sector led by growth and development.

The reminder was made by Minister for Agriculture, Rural and Maritime Development, Inia Seruiratu while speaking to graduates at Paravet Graduation Ceremony last night held at the Tanoa International hotel in Suva.

Seruiratu stressed to the 31graduates to have sustainable development within the agricultural sector we need to invest in capacity building within the ministry.

“I always argue, we can have the best resources, technology, and best equipment and if we have the wrong people in the organisation we are not going to achieve our goals and we are not going to achieve much,” Minister Seruiratu said.”

“We need to cultivate our people, the ministry has invested a lot in this 16-week training and upskilling of Paravet officers, with the online and practical aspects to the course.”

Seruiratu adds that capacity building is so critical and to realise the potential the agriculture has in Fiji the working with the stakeholders is the only solution.

The 16-week course training was facilitated by the Fiji National University, Secretariat of the Pacific Community and other stakeholders.

Acting Director Animal Health and Production Anil Dayal says these Paravet graduates will be able to diagnose disease or do the work of the vet.

Dayal adds with their services provided to our farmers can lead to increased animal production through improved animal health plus a reduction in the risks associated with the introduction and spread of diseases of animal and public health significance.

The introductory Paravet training covers all aspects of animal health, animal production, zoonosis and biosecurity.