150 Fijians going through selection in Suva to join the British Army

150 Fijians are currently going through tests in Suva to join the British Army.

British High Commissioner to Fiji Melanie Hopkins says Fijians like citizens of other Commonwealth nations are entitled to join the British Army and receive pay and conditions equal to British soldiers.

She says about 2,000 Fijians are currently serving in the British Army and it is a big investment for Fijian families to be able to send someone to the United Kingdom to serve.

Hopkins says last week applicants had to run 2.4km in 11 minutes, take a computer literacy and numeracy test and undergo a medical examination.

29‑year‑old applicant Salanieta Yacake who has been applying from last year says that being in a male dominated field; it has encouraged her to push herself.

29‑year‑old applicant Salanieta Yacake

She adds that females can do whatever men can.

Hopkins says from the British Government’s perspective, a  quarter of placements are open for Commonwealth citizens for The British Army, The British Navy and The Royal Air Force.