Suva, Fiji Islands (19 April 2024) – The Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies (PCMS) celebrated the graduation of 15 deckhand fishing students in a ceremony held today.

The event, attended by faculty and staff of PCMS and the Fiji National University (FNU), industry representatives, and families, marked the successful completion of a rigorous programme aimed at equipping graduates with essential skills for the maritime industry.

Ms. Hanna Helsingen, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) - Pacific’s Regional Conservation Director, commended the graduates on their hard work and dedication, emphasising the importance of integrating conservation principles into maritime education.

“This graduation ceremony celebrates your hard work, dedication, and steadfast support throughout your journeys. The partnership between partners, have been instrumental in promoting sustainable fishing practices and environmental stewardship within the industry here in Fiji,” she stated.

Since 2019, the partnership between the FNU and the PCMS, the Fiji Fishing Industry Association (FFIA), the Ministry of Fisheries and the WWF, 163 students have graduated as Fishing Deckhands and 19 students have graduated as Offshore Fishing Skippers.

Dr. Isimeli Tagicakiverata, Fiji National University’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Chief Guest, underscored the significance of the Deckhand Fishing Programme in addressing industry needs and fostering employability.

“Graduation day marks a significant milestone for these graduates as they transition into the maritime profession. Your upskilling here at PCMS not only enhances your skills but also allows you to better support you and your loved ones,” he remarked.

As the graduates continue to embark on their careers, they were urged to embrace their roles as stewards of the oceans and champions of sustainable fishing practices. Their contributions are expected to have a positive impact on marine biodiversity and community well-being in Fiji and beyond.

“By instilling in you and future graduates a deep appreciation for the marine ecosystem and the need for responsible fishing practices, we are fostering a new generation of maritime professionals who will act as stewards of our oceans,” added Helsingen.

The PCMS’ rigorous Deckhand Fishing programme focused on providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in basic sea safety, nautical expertise and effective bycatch mitigation strategies.

Recognising the importance of making this transformative education accessible to deserving students, the PCMS partnered with WWF to provide scholarships. PCMS also engaged the FFIA to not only provide clear pathways but build capacity for graduates who majority are employed as deckhands in Fiji’s offshore sector.

The scholarships, which covered tuition, daily meal and travel allowance were made possible through the Safeguarding Nesting Populations of Sea Turtles in Fiji project. This initiative aims to reduce sea turtle bycatch in Fiji. The project, funded by WWF-UK, is a collaboration between PCMS, FFIA, Ministry of Fisheries, and WWF.

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