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The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), in partnership with the Navuso Agriculture and Technical Institute, continues to empower young iTaukei through the Future Farmer Program, equipping graduates with practical skills, secure land tenure, and clear pathways into commercial farming.

Out of the 28 graduates celebrated, two students helped pioneer the Bedford Student Farm Scheme, which was launched in 2022 under the program. The scheme required participants to put theory into practice by independently farming four acres of land and sustaining themselves over a full three-year period.

Program requirements included cultivating at least two acres of ginger, planting a minimum of 10,000 dalo plants, and working towards a savings target of $35,000 each by the end of the third year. Despite the demanding nature of the scheme, both students successfully completed the three-year program and saved at least $20,000 each, which was presented to them at graduation.

Following their successful completion, the two graduates were each granted a 50-year agricultural lease over five acres, providing secure land tenure to further develop their farms with support from the TLTB.

Navuso ATI Head of School, Mr. Uraia Waibuta, said the institute supported the graduates with at least $10,000 each to cover lease costs, building of a one-bedroom house each and initial farming inputs during their early stages.

The Chief Guest, President of the Methodist Church in Fiji and Rotuma, Rev. Dr. Semisi Turagavou, acknowledged the partnership behind the initiative, saying, “We thank TLTB for its role in shaping Navuso Agriculture and Technical Institute and for its contribution as we celebrate the graduation of 28 students. The land is a gift from God entrusted to us to nurture, protect, and multiply for the good of all.”

TLTB Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Solomone Nata, said, “I am honored to support this program because it directly impacts the lives and livelihoods of our iTaukei men and women. By shifting towards hands-on assessments rather than purely classroom-based learning, we are better preparing our youth for farming and long-term economic success.”

TLTB will continue to support the two graduates through regular visits and ongoing engagement, monitoring their progress and supporting their future development in the agricultural sector. This continued involvement reflects TLTB’s commitment to productive land use, land security, and the long-term success of young iTaukei farmers.