Skills for Life & Employment
Transforming Education, Empowering Futures
The Skills for Life and Employment (SLE) program, developed and delivered by APMT (www.apmt.com.fj), stands at the forefront of Fiji’s educational reform. This flagship initiative directly addresses the nation’s urgent challenge of a 39% secondary school dropout rate, with an ambitious target to bring this figure down to 25% in the coming years by making education more practical, relevant, and accessible to all Fijian youth.
Addressing the high dropout rate and supporting young Fijians to complete secondary education is not only a matter of personal opportunity but also a national imperative. It is essential for building a skilled workforce, reducing poverty, and ensuring sustainable social and economic development across the country
A Holistic, Tiered Approach
SLE is more than a traditional program; it is a comprehensive system designed to instil hope, build structure, and provide clear, accredited pathways for every young Fijian. As the “mother program,” SLE awards students with Certificate I and Certificate II—nationally recognized provider qualifications conferred by APMT. These certifications serve as vital stepping stones, unlocking access to employment, higher education, and continued personal development.
Why is SLE critical for Fiji?
Every student who leaves school prematurely represents not just lost potential, but also a missed opportunity for national progress. High dropout rates translate into wasted educational investments and compound the risk of increased youth unemployment, diminished workforce capability, and heightened social challenges. Without immediate, coordinated action, Fiji faces the prospect of ongoing economic vulnerability and generational setbacks.
The goal of SLE
The Skills for Life and Employment (SLE) initiative is all set to be Fiji’s decisive response to the critical issue of high school dropouts, resulting in long term unemployment. By providing structured, accredited, and practical pathways, SLE empowers young Fijians with the skills, confidence, and purpose they need to transform their futures and contribute meaningfully to society.
Timeline
Short-Term Benefits
Long-Term Impact
0 – 12 Months
Increased school engagement; Certifications earned; Career clarity
Higher retention; Better employability; Strategic VET enrollment
1 – 3 Years
Youth entry into formal jobs or apprenticeships; Decreased early-school dropouts
Workforce skill enhancement; Social resilience; Local economic rebound
3 – 5+ Years
Reduced youth unemployment; Stronger rural/urban equity
Diversified economy; Lower poverty; Improved health and education outcomes