TWO more Fiji National University (FNU) civil engineering students are receiving on-the-job experience with one of Fiji’s leading road companies, an initiative aimed at giving graduates insight into the industry.
The intake is a follow up to previous successful attachments of Fijian FNU students with the company – Fulton Hogan Hiways Joint Venture (FHHJV).
In a media statement, the two FNU civil engineering students on attachment said they were “grateful for the wealth of work experience” provided by the company.
The cadet engineers, Marcus Varea and Josese Delai, are on attachment at the FHHJV Samabula Depot Maintenance Department.
Mr Varea, 23, is in his final year of pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering and is working as a technical assistant to FHHJV manager rural east, Elifasi Kirikiti.
Mr Delai is pursuing his Diploma in Civil Engineering and is working as a technical assistant to FFHJV rural west area manager Asheesh Chand.
Citing what the students had experienced, Mr Kirikiti said the attachees were coached through the processes relevant to their roles and how these impact the whole business.
The cadet engineers agreed that the four months they have had so far with FHHJV have been a “great and the best learning experience”, as they not only spend time in the office, but also go out in the field to work sites.
“Understanding and doing hands on work really puts things into the picture,” said Mr Varea, who hails from Pepjei, Rotuma.
“The company also holds safety as an important priority and I think that’s one of the many things that I admire and strongly believe in.
“Safety at work and at the job sites really has a huge positive impact on both the people involved and the work being done,” he said.
The cadet engineers have also had the opportunity to participate in training that includes Basic First Aid, Standard Operating Procedures for Potholes, RAMM Contractor, and Leadership training.
“Personally I have done attachment in two different companies before and FHH has been excellent in knowledge transfer and safety aspects. Thank you FHHJV for giving us an opportunity to be part of the team,” said Mr Delai, who is originally from Nasilai, Nakelo in Tailevu.
