Published by Epi Rawalai  · onrsetdopS01h97145a061211226017muc6ih599f7f10056h9c1318373gm  ·

Following today’s meeting, the Fiji National University (FNU) has agreed to delay its planned increase in hostel fees until the next national budget.

This decision follows consultations hosted by the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) with key stakeholders including the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, National Development & Strategic Planning, Professor Biman Prasad, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro, HECF Chairperson, Mr Steve Chand, Chairlady of the TSLS Board Ro Teimumu Kepa, as well as senior officials from the Fiji Commerce and Consumer Commission and the Consumer Council of Fiji.

The postponement aims to ensure fairness, transparency, and open communication between the university, students, and all relevant parties. This approach aligns with the government’s commitment to ensuring that changes within the education sector are made with thorough consultation, careful attention to student welfare, and consideration of institutional sustainability.

FNU has recognized the importance of following proper procedures and has expressed its willingness to engage in further consultations to ensure that all necessary discussions take place moving forward

A delegation from the Fiji National University (FNU) today met with Mr. Steve Chand, Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), and senior officers from the HECF. The purpose of the meeting was to provide an overview of FNU’s newly launched Diploma in Vanua Leadership Programme.

Designed specifically for traditional chiefs, this innovative programme aims to equip Indigenous Fijian leaders with essential skills and knowledge, empowering them to navigate modern societal challenges while preserving the cultural, social, and spiritual values integral to the Fijian way of life.

The Diploma in Vanua Leadership Programme is a collaborative effort between FNU, the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), and the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs. Through this partnership, the programme aims to strengthen leadership within Fiji’s communities, enhancing the role of chiefs in their communities while promoting the preservation of Fijian traditions.

Mr. Steve Chand expressed his appreciation for the FNU team’s efforts in presenting the programme and reiterated the HECF’s commitment to supporting the initiative, particularly through the necessary  regulatory processes.

“ We are thrilled to collaborate in support of the GCC’s initiative, which also complements the HECF’s efforts to empower provincial councils in delivering higher education and skills training at the provincial level,” Mr. Chand added

The Diploma in Vanua Leadership Programme is set to launch in the first quarter of 2025, marking a significant step towards revitalizing and strengthening traditional leadership within Fiji’s communities.

As part of his official tour of Taveuni, the Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), Mr. Steve Chand, visited the Tutu Training Centre to learn about its innovative educational programs and recent developments. Mr. Chand met with the Centre’s Director, Fr. Petero Matairatu, and the dedicated staff to gain a deeper understanding of their work.

Fr. Matairatu shared insights into the Centre’s unique educational model, with a particular focus on the Young Farmers Programme. This program stands out for its ability to equip students with both practical skills and financial stability, as graduates leave with funds in their bank accounts and a comprehensive five-year life development plan.

Mr. Chand was also introduced to inspiring success stories of students who, despite facing challenges with literacy and numeracy and previously disengaging from the traditional school system, have flourished after completing their training at Tutu. In addition to the Young Farmers Programme, the Centre offers initiatives for single women, family couples, and alumni, providing support and empowerment across diverse groups.

Mr. Chand expressed his admiration for Tutu’s innovative approach to education, congratulating Fr. Matairatu and the staff for their commitment to providing practical, life-changing education that is especially impactful for students who face significant barriers to traditional schooling. He also noted that elements of Tutu’s community-focused model, including life development plans for students, could be adapted and implemented in other provinces throughout Fiji to help more individuals achieve their potential.

Fr. Matairatu expressed his gratitude to Mr. Chand, noting that this was the first visit to the Centre by the Chair of the Higher Education Commission during his many years as Director.

The Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), Mr. Steve Chand, is looking forward to a structured collaboration with the Fiji Police Force, following commitments of support from the newly sworn-in Minister for Policing, Hon. Ioane Naivalurua. These commitments were made during the Minister’s recent visit to Taveuni as part of his official tour of the island.

During his visit to the Waiyevo Police Station, Hon. Naivalurua, along with Mr. Chand, was warmly welcomed by local police officers and members of the community. In his address, Mr. Chand stressed the critical role that education plays in addressing one of Fiji’s most pressing issues—drug abuse. He highlighted that vulnerable youths, particularly those who have disengaged from the school system, are more likely to become victims of drug abuse.

To combat this issue, the HECF is actively working to establish safety nets at the provincial level, creating more opportunities for access to higher education. This initiative presents an opportunity for the HECF to collaborate with the Police Force in addressing the root causes of drug-related issues.

Minister Naivalurua echoed Mr. Chand’s concerns, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Police Force in leading the fight against drug abuse in Fiji. He described the battle against drugs as a “war” that cannot be won by the police alone, calling for a unified effort from the vanua (traditional communities), the church (lotu), and the broader society. The Minister urged all sectors to work together to address the underlying causes of the drug epidemic and to reduce its impact on communities.

Mr. Chand and Minister Naivalurua have agreed to meet in the near future to further discuss and formalize a partnership between the HECF and the Fiji Police Force, focusing on joint efforts to tackle key issues related to education and drug abuse.

The opening of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) office in Labasa today brings higher education services directly to the northern community, making them more accessible to people across the region. This move marks a significant step in ensuring that all Fijians, regardless of their location, have equal opportunities to engage with and benefit from the global knowledge economy.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka officiated the event, underscoring the crucial role of higher education in fostering progress, innovation, and empowerment. “Higher education not only equips individuals with the skills to succeed but also empowers entire communities and nations to tackle the challenges of a rapidly evolving world,” said the PM.

He further emphasized the transformative power of education, highlighting that the expansion of higher education access in Fiji and the Pacific Islands reflects a growing acknowledgment that local empowerment and development are driven by quality education.

Currently, there are 45 registered higher education institutions under the Fiji Higher Education Commission, with nine located in Vanua Levu. These include one in Savusavu, one in Taveuni, and seven in the Labasa area.

The Prime Minister also encouraged the Commission to strengthen partnerships with regional counterparts to foster collaborative growth and development. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to prioritizing education as a key pillar for the nation’s growth and prosperity.

“I urge every province, every tikina, every village, every community, every family, and every individual to recognize the importance of education. Let’s continue working together to create a nation where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive and contribute to Fiji’s future,” he concluded.

The event was attended by Education Minister Hon. Aseri Radrodro, Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Heritage, and Culture Hon. Ifereimi Vasu, Assistant Minister for Information Hon. Aliki Bia, traditional leaders from Macuata, and senior executives from the Commission

The Japanese Ambassador to Fiji, HE Mr. Rokuichiro Michii along with the First Secretary, met today ( 26 November 2024) with the leadership team from the Higher Education Commission of Fiji (HECF). This is the first time the HECF has engaged with the Japanese Embassy.

During the meeting, the Ambassador expressed his pleasure at the opportunity to finally meet with the HECF. Both sides discussed potential partnerships to address skills gaps and improve training in Fiji.

Mr. Steve Chand, Chair of the HECF, highlighted the importance of these partnerships in strengthening the workforce and supporting the country’s growth. Mr Chand thanked the Japanese Ambassador for this first meeting describing it as an important step in building stronger ties between Japan and Fiji in education and skills development.

The Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji, Mr. Steve Chand, was the Chief Guest at the Montfort Boys Town Graduation 2024, where 63 students graduated receiving National Qualification in five technical trades including Cabinet Making, Automotive, Fitting & Machinery, Building, and Electrical.

In his address, Mr. Chand emphasized that the true measure of a school’s success is not solely determined by academic achievements, but by its ability to offer real-world opportunities to its graduates. He highlighted the importance of preparing students to secure meaningful employment and make significant contributions to society.

Mr. Chand praised Montfort Boys Town for its exceptional track record in rapidly integrating its graduates into the workforce, with many securing job offers even before completing their studies. He encouraged the graduates to think beyond seeking employment and to aspire to become employers themselves. He stressed the need for innovation, creativity, and leadership, urging them to create opportunities not just for themselves, but also for others.

Additionally, Mr. Chand challenged the graduates to consider remaining in Fiji, utilizing their skills to build and develop local communities, and ultimately contributing to the country’s growth and prosperity.

The event was further supported by the Australia Pacific Management Training Institution, which awarded $200 to the top five students in each grade. The institution also made a generous cash donation to Montfort Boys Town’s management.

Also in attendance at the MBT 2024 graduation were the Indian High Commissioner,HE Palaniswamy Karthigeyan and Japanese Ambassador, Mr. Rokuichiro Michii.

Mr. Steve Chand, Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji ( HECF) addressed the Year 8 Graduation Ceremony at Korovuto Primary School today ( 22 Nov 2024)as Chief Guest. The event was held at the Double Tree Resort in Nadi. He encouraged students to embrace the endless possibilities their future holds and emphasized the value of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in fields like carpentry, plumbing, hospitality, and agriculture, which offer well-paying, high-demand jobs. He also highlighted the government’s support for TVET as a key pathway to employment.

Mr Chand urged parents to continue guiding their children through the transition to secondary school, stressing the importance of academic, emotional, and social preparation. He also called for collective action to address school dropouts and the rising threat of methamphetamine use.

He urged students to dream big and work towards becoming the best versions of themselves. The ceremony was supported by Australian Pacific Management Training (APMT), who provided prize money and trophies for the top students.

he Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), Mr. Steve Chand, met with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Education Team while on an official trip in Australia.

Mr. Chand was accompanied by Fiji’s High Commissioner to Australia, His Excellency Ajay Amrit Bhai. During the meeting, they discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation in the field of higher education.

The discussions focused on fostering academic exchanges, exploring opportunities for joint initiatives, and strengthening educational ties between Fiji and the UAE.