Inaugural conference to bridge gap

The Fiji National University’s (FNU) first Students Association and Vice Chancellors Leadership Conference focused on bridging the gap between student leaders and senior staff.

This was through discussions of issues impacting the student body and university overall.

This was emphasised by the FNU acting vice chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo Baba during the opening of the conference on Monday at the FNU Natabua Campus in Lautoka.

The conference attracted senior academic staff members of FNU’s 13 campuses.

Topics of discussion range from sustainability, the digital age and rapid growth of artificial intelligence, how to enhance students studying, female leadership, collaborative teaching and learning as well as alumni engagement.

“They gathered together because we thought, jointly as senior leaders and student leaders, that is a good time to reflect and to discuss strategies moving forward,” Professor Nabobo said.

It must come deep within your soul, there is a natural inclination to be good people, to be extraordinary, to be an inspiration, to be respectful, to be people who commit to the service of others above self. Aseri Radrodro Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts

“There is joint governance in a university whether we admit it or not, the responsibilities that you carry out as student leaders effectively will ensure that the goals and ambitions of yours as well as the university are met.”

Chief guest the Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts Aseri Radrodro said there were many aspects of leadership

“It must come deep within your soul, there is a natural inclination to be good people, to be extraordinary, to be an inspiration, to be respectful, to be people who commit to the service of others above self,” he said. FNU Students Association president Mohammed Rafiq Iqbal said the conference provided an opportunity to invest in future leaders.