A passion for fabrication and welding has taken Fiji National University (FNU) apprentice Joseph Daucakamana from the workshop floor in Labasa to the international stage, where he proudly represented Fiji and FNU at the International Skills Competition in Timor-Leste.

The second-year apprentice, who is employed by the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), competed in the welding category at the prestigious regional Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) competition. The event marked a historic milestone as it was FNU’s first participation in the international competition.

For Joseph, being selected to represent the University was both an honour and a proud moment.

“Learning that I had been selected to represent FNU was overwhelming. I felt an incredible sense of pride and excitement. The greatest honour was knowing that I would be representing my workplace, University and most importantly my nation that has invested so much in my professional development,” he said.

Joseph enrolled in FNU’s apprenticeship programme to turn his passion for welding into a lifelong career while gaining hands-on industry experience through his employment with FSC.

One of the highlights of the competition was the opportunity to connect with fellow competitors from across the Pacific.

“Meeting participants from different Pacific Island countries created a strong sense of regional solidarity. We shared experiences, ideas, and different approaches to our trade, which made the experience even more meaningful,” he said.

Throughout his journey, Joseph credits his success to the guidance and encouragement of his lecturers and workplace mentors. He acknowledged the support of FNU lecturers Mr Jiale Litidamu, Mr Rudra Nand and Head of Department for Manufacturing and Printing, Ms Madhu Mala, along with his workplace supervisors at FSC.

“They have all played an important role in encouraging me and helping me build my confidence and technical skills,” Joseph said.

Ms Mala, who accompanied Joseph to Timor-Leste, said the competition demonstrated the importance of equipping students with industry-relevant technical skills and exposing them to international standards.

“It highlighted the importance of combining quality teaching, industry standards and practical skills to prepare students for real-world challenges,” she said.

Manager Apprenticeship and Trade Test Alvin Lal described FNU’s participation as a significant milestone for the University and its apprenticeship programme.

“The International Skills Competition is a prestigious regional TVET event that showcases excellence in vocational skills while bringing together outstanding young competitors, industry experts and training institutions,” Mr Lal said.

He added that FNU’s debut at the competition provided apprentices and trainers with valuable exposure to international industry standards, emerging technologies and regional partnerships, while supporting Fiji’s goal of developing a highly skilled workforce.

Looking ahead, Joseph plans to complete his qualification and continue building his career as a certified welder with FSC. He hopes his journey will encourage more young people to pursue technical education through FNU’s apprenticeship programme.

“The apprenticeship programme gives you the best of both worlds. You earn while you learn. It combines classroom knowledge with real industry experience, helping you build practical skills, confidence, and a strong foundation for your future career,” he said.