“Fiji must reduce its dependence on imports and instead focus on investing in our natural resources. Agriculture is key to this vision, and supporting our young farmers with modern equipment is a step towards greater self and economic resilience.”
This was the message of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during the handing over of a brand-new $198,000 excavator to the students of the Navuso Agricultural Technical Institute (NATI) on Saturday (14.6.25).
The project fulfills a commitment made by the Head of Government during the Rewa Provincial Council meeting on 19 July, 2024 and was later raised again by the Head of Institute during the school’s graduation ceremony earlier this year.
In his address, Prime Minister Rabuka reminded the students—who are the primary beneficiaries—to make full use of the machinery to boost their productivity, particularly in agricultural output and land preparation.
He noted that the procurement of such machinery through the Government’s procurement process often takes time, and this should motivate students to be productive and to take good care of the equipment.
“Excavators play a crucial role in various agricultural processes, including land clearing, installation of drainage systems, construction of ponds and reservoirs, terracing, leveling, and digging. This makes the excavator an indispensable tool in modern agricultural practices,” he said.
The Prime Minister also urged the teaching staff to keep proper records of harvests before and after the introduction of the excavator to assess its impact on production yields.
He further emphasized the importance of investing in agriculture to ensure food security and sustainable development in Fiji.
“Government’s funding towards institutes like Navuso Agricultural Technical Institute is vital. It will greatly enhance the learning environment and provide students with practical experience in operating modern machinery,” Prime Minister Rabuka said.
He also urged the graduates to not only look at themselves as farmers but as leaders contributing effectively to society and the economy as a whole.
Head of Navuso Agricultural Technical Institute, Mr. Uraia Waibuta, acknowledged the Government’s funding support towards the institute, saying it will greatly enhance the learning environment and provide students with practical experience in operating modern machinery.
Mr. Waibuta added, the excavator will not only enhance our land preparation and production capabilities but also serve as a vital teaching tool that bridges theory and practical skills. We are committed to ensuring that our students maximize the benefits of this machinery for their future careers.
The handover ceremony at the Institute over the weekend began with the observance of a minute of silence as a mark of respect for the late Vatimi Rayalu, the Minister for Agriculture and Waterways who died last Thursday.
The late Mr Rayalu was a work colleague of Mr Waibuta who paid tribute to the Minister as a big supporter of Navuso.
