Fiji has a shortage of experts in the science field, therefore the government is strongly focusing and dedicating resources to this field.

Trades Minister, Faiyaz Koya says in order for the country to grow, they need to expand the number of science experts.

Koya says whilst government has measures in place to address this issue, parents, teachers and guardians are to encourage their children to take up science subjects in school.

“There is more emphasis on science scholarships. In the recent 2018/2019 National Budget, the Government had expanded the National Toppers Scheme for students with another 340 full time scholarships, bringing the number to 970. Of these new scholarships, 20 will be awarded for overseas study and specialised courses that are not offered in Fiji and this includes forensic and genetic science.”

He says that the Tertiary Scholarship and Loans Board Award is another avenue where students are encouraged to apply for programmes.

The TSLB Awards are for Years 12 and 13 students who wish to pursue approved Engineering programmes at the Fiji National University.

The minister says our youth should not only be job seekers, but also job creators.