The Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji, Mr. Steve Chand officiated as Chief Guest at the CMF College Graduation Ceremony for the second cohort of the Micro-Qualification in Restaurant Services, held today, Friday, 25 July 2025. A total of 20 graduates were awarded certificates, marking a significant step forward in their hospitality careers.

Mr Chand acknowledged Reverend Suliasi Kurulo for his visionary leadership in establishing a vocational centre that provides second chances for young people. He commended the holistic approach taken by the college, blending spiritual guidance with practical skills training.

Addressing the 20 graduates of the Micro-Qualification in Restaurant Services, Mr. Chand noted the presence of six young men, encouraging them to aim high in a field where excellence knows no gender. He also urged graduates to consider building their careers in Fiji, highlighting the country’s thriving tourism sector, with over 92,000 visitors in June and more than 350,000 in the first five months of the year.

The HECF Chair congratulated the second cohort of CMF College graduates, acknowledging their successful completion of an important milestone and encouraging them to view their micro-qualification as a stepping stone toward further achievements. He also commended the management and trainers of CMF College for their commitment to driving the programme forward and fostering meaningful partnerships with the industry, which are helping to uplift families and communities through skills development.

Special thanks were extended to the parents and families for their unwavering support. The Chair reminded graduates to continue learning and growing, and to carry with them the values of respect, service, and excellence—qualities that the hospitality industry needs now more than ever.

PC: CMF College.

A total of 30 participants took part in the Western Division consultation workshop for the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) Strategic Plan 2026–2030, held today, Friday 25/07/25, as part of the Commission’s nationwide engagement efforts.

This session follows the successful completion of consultations in the Northern and Central Divisions, with each workshop aimed at gathering diverse stakeholder input to shape a responsive and inclusive national plan for higher education.

In his opening remarks, HECF Director Dr. Eci Naisele emphasised the importance of inclusive representation, stating, “Your participation today ensures that the voices and insights of the Western Division are meaningfully represented in this national plan. Whether you represent a higher education institution, civil society, the private sector, or government—your perspectives are vital and deeply appreciated.”

The Strategic Plan 2026–2030 will guide the development of Fiji’s higher education sector over the next five years.

The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) refers to a post published on the “Truth and Democracy” Facebook page and the “Fiji Exposed Forum” concerning a recent accident involving one of its official vehicles.

HECF wishes to correct a number of inaccuracies contained in these posts.

Firstly, HECF categorically states that the accident has no connection whatsoever to the son of the HECF Chair, contrary to claims made on social media. This assertion is entirely false, misleading, and irresponsible. There was never any party at the Chair’s residence as alleged. At no time was the Chair’s son involved in the incident, nor was he with the Commission driver at any point before or during the event.

Furthermore, HECF would like to clarify that the driver of the vehicle was not intoxicated, as has been falsely claimed. The Commission believes that accidents, while unfortunate, do occur—and it is precisely for this reason they are termed as such.

The Commission urges those posting on social media to exercise responsibility and sensitivity. Such incidents affect not only the staff involved but also their families, who are already enduring emotional distress. Compassion remains a virtue worth embracing, especially in challenging times.

This incident involves a staff member who has been directly affected, and rather than allowing the appropriate processes to take their course, some users have chosen to circulate unverified and harmful narratives.

HECF reiterates that this matter is under review by the relevant authorities, and the Commission will continue to support due process, placing trust in official assessments and recommendations. Those involved deserve the time and space to heal—physically and emotionally.

The Commission adheres strictly to the Government’s Transport Policy and its own internal corporate policies to ensure the safety of its employees and the proper use and accountability of its assets. These guidelines will continue to inform HECF’s actions.

Finally, HECF respectfully calls on members of the public and users of social media platforms to act with caution, responsibility, and fairness. Premature assumptions and baseless accusations risk undermining formal investigations and unnecessarily harming individuals and institutions alike.

For further information, please contact:

communications@hec.org.fj

+679 9982948