Two Navy officers TO STUDY AT NZ DEFENCE CENTRE
Two Fijian Navy officers will spend a year studying at the Defence International Learning Centre based in Wellington, New Zealand.
This comes after the Fijian Navy and the Royal New Zealand Navy re-engage in partnership through training and development for Fijian sailors. Midshipwoman, Mereseini Sokoilagi was taking a medical course at the Fiji National University when the Fijian Navy advertised for new recruits.
The 23-year-old Naloto, Tailevu, villager took the challenge and has no regrets. Tomorrow, she departs for a one-year study at the Defence International Learning Centre based at Trentham, Wellington.
“As one of the first female officers here at the Navy, I wish to bring home the standards that New Zealand will teach us, and set the standard for future female naval officers here.”
Midshipwoman Sokoilagi is the first in her family to join the Navy.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to be a pioneer and wanted to try something new. “During our training, they made sure that whatever we did was the same as our male counterparts. So if we are able to come this far – then any young woman can do the same.”
Midshipman Peni Koroitubuna of Sabeto, Nadi, is looking forward to the opportunity.
“I never dreamed of doing this. I am the first to achieve something like this in my family and it makes me proud,” he said.