Investing in Excellence for National Development
Bula Sia!
The month of March was yet another vibrant month at the Fiji National University (FNU), I am filled with an immense sense of pride and excitement especially when I recall all the important achievements of this month. As I often say in my weekly message, each day brings new opportunities for growth and innovation, and it is through our collective dedication and determination that we continue to transform dreams into reality. This month’s theme of “Investing in Excellence” perfectly summarises the priority areas of our 2024-2026 Strategic Plan. At FNU, we firmly believe in investing in excellence to enhance access to higher education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), as well as fostering research initiatives. By prioritising excellence, FNU aims to elevate the quality of education and skills training available to every Fijian, regardless of background or circumstance. This commitment not only enriches individual lives but also empowers communities and contributes to national development. Through a dedication to excellence, FNU strives to provide every Fijian with the opportunity to realise their aspirations and transform their dreams into tangible achievements, thereby fostering a brighter future for both individuals and our nation.
MOU Signings
One of the hallmarks of excellence is our commitment to forging strategic partnerships with esteemed institutions worldwide. This month, I am thrilled to announce the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Beijing Normal University (BNU) and the Universitas Negri Malang (UM) from Indonesia. By partnering with leading international universities, Fiji National University (FNU) is strategically investing in excellence for national development. These agreements facilitate academic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and research partnerships, enabling us to enhance its educational offerings, improve faculty expertise, and foster innovation. Ultimately, this investment in international partnerships empowers FNU, as the nation’s university to cultivate a skilled workforce and advance research capabilities, driving socioeconomic progress and sustainable development in Fiji. By joining hands with these prestigious institutions, FNU reaffirms its dedication to fostering global connections and investing in excellence on an international scale.
Vice-Chancellor’s Research Awards
Excellence in academia thrives on the foundation of groundbreaking research. Here at FNU, we are privileged to have a community of scholars and researchers whose passion for discovery knows no bounds. It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the recipients of the ViceChancellor’s Research Awards which celebrated the years of hard work and commitment to new, excellent innovative ideas in various sectors. To the winners and nominees, your dedication to pushing the boundaries of knowledge inspires us all and reaffirms FNU’s commitment to nurturing a culture of innovation and inquiry. These accolades not only acknowledge the dedication and ingenuity of our researchers but also inspire others to push boundaries and strive for greatness. Each award is a testament to our commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and scholarly pursuit, propelling us closer to our vision of academic excellence.
International Women’s Day
Celebrating diversity and empowering women are integral parts of our institutional ethos. This month, we came together to commemorate International Women’s Day, honouring the invaluable contributions of women in our community and beyond. From trailblazing leaders to unsung heroes, women continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the fabric of our society. At FNU, we stand firm in our commitment to gender equality and pledge to create a supportive environment where every individual can thrive and succeed, regardless of gender. Through a series of events and initiatives, we honored the invaluable contributions of women in our community and beyond. As the first indigenous female leader of FNU, I was honoured to speak at various women’s celebrations where I got the opportunity to encourage women, girls and of course our male counterparts about the importance of inspiring and investing in the inclusion of females to accelerate the progress of our communities.
Northern Tour
Investing in excellence means reaching every corner of our beautiful nation, from the bustling streets of Suva to the serene landscapes of Vanua Levu. This month, I had the privilege of embarking on a tour of Northern Fiji, where I witnessed firsthand the passion and potential that abound in our nation. From a vibrant cultural showcase during my traditional welcome at the Naduna Campus to engaging academic discussions with professional peers, district and provincial heads, and of course our wonderful Fijian people, it was truly inspiring to see the passion our people in rural and remote areas in Vanua Levu have towards pursuing their dreams. This endeavour allowed us to engage with communities, understand their needs, and explore opportunities for collaboration and growth. By bridging the gap between academia and society, we will ensure that our efforts are not only impactful but also aligned with the aspirations of the communities we serve. We are hoping to ensure that the transformative impact of education reaches every corner of our country because as we continue to expand our footprint internationally, let us never forget to invest in the excellence of our people and the importance of inclusivity and accessibility for our fellow Fijians living in rural, remote, and maritime areas of Fiji.
Career Teachers’ Workshop
Education is not just about imparting knowledge; it is about empowering the next generation with the skills and confidence to chart their own paths. This month, we had the honour of hosting a nationwide Careers Teachers Workshop, where educators from across the country came together to exchange ideas and insights on preparing students for the future. By equipping our teachers with the tools, they need to inspire and guide our youth, we are laying the groundwork for a future filled with endless possibilities. By providing valuable insights and resources to educators, we empower them to guide and inspire students towards fulfilling and meaningful career paths. Through education, mentorship, and opportunity, we turn aspirations into achievements, together, we are turning dreams into reality, one student at a time. As we reflect on these milestones, let us be reminded of the power of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity in our journey towards excellence. Together, we can transcend boundaries, defy expectations, and transform aspirations into accomplishments. Let us continue to dream boldly, aspire relentlessly, and work tirelessly to create a future where excellence knows no bounds. Together, we will continue to invest in excellence and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow for Fiji!