The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) team led by Chairperson Steve Chand, Director Dr Eci Naisele, held a meeting with the Dr Jason Mitchell, currently leading the HIV task force at Ministry of Health and Medical Services (M0HMS) .

The primary purpose of the meeting was to have discuss the critical issue with the raising concerns of HIV/ AIDS outbreak in Fiji and to discuss on HIV & AIDs Educators Champion Programme.

HECF Chairperson Mr Steve Chand, said this course will be able to educate the people, as HIV has become a national topic. Australian Pacific Management and Training is the only registered Higher Education Institution that offers this Certificate 2 in Community Health (Addressing HIV &AIDS in Fiji).

He added that we see this programme as an insurance cover for Fijians, which aims the further prevention of HIV.

Dr Mitchell presented a brief overview of the current HIV situation in Fiji, highlighting the importance of awareness alone will not solve the issues. Moving forward MOHMS and commission will continue to dialogue how best HECF can play a role especially in HEI in combating the HIV outbreak.

He added more resources particularly funding and human resources is needed to effectively combat HIV in Fiji.

The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) has officially awarded Certificates of Registration to 10 Provincial Councils—Tailevu, Lau, Naitasiri, Rewa, Lomaiviti, Kadavu, Namosi, Serua, as well as the councils of Rabi and Rotuma. These councils are now formally registered as sub-campuses under the CATD Nadave banner.

This initiative aims to bring training opportunities directly to the provincial level, enabling communities to reskill, upskill, and provide second chances for individuals seeking education and vocational development.

HECF Chair, Mr Steve Chand said that by empowering provincial councils to offer these programmes, HECF supports a proactive approach to addressing key national concerns, including reducing school dropouts and mitigating the risks of drug abuse among vulnerable youth.

Chair of the Tailevu Provincial Council Education Committee, Dr Akanisi Kedrayate, in response on behalf of the Provincial Councils, thanked HECF and commented that “this initiative is faith in action, demonstrating a genuine commitment to uplift communities, provide opportunities for lifelong learning, and create a brighter future for our youth

Through this initiative, the Commission continues to strengthen Fiji’s education system while fostering community development and social resilience across the nation.

In a landmark collaboration, the Vodafone ATH Foundation, the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), together with Australian Pacific Management and Training (APMT) have forged a new path for community development. This partnership has resulted in championing the programme of Certificate in Community Health (Addressing HIV/AIDS in Fiji) Level 2.

A groundbreaking initiative designed to transform lives and strengthen the social fabric of Fiji.

APMT Director Programme Management Mr Ck Bhuravarjhula stated this programme aims to directly support Fiji’s strategy to combat the HIV/AIDS outbreak, which will benefit community and Fiji.

He further stated the program supports Fiji’s commitment to end AIDS by 2030, in line with UNAIDS and WHO targets.

“The outcome of the program mobilize communities for testing, ensure informed consent and confidentiality, and provide rapid referral into treatment and support.

Vodafone ATH Foundation CEO Ambalika Devi stated, this initiative represents a genuine investment of time and resources into impactful causes. It is a strategic move to “work the talk” by providing tangible solutions that lead to a healthier, more informed populace.

Ms Devi said, this collaborative effort is a powerful example of how education can serve as a catalyst for profound social change. It’s a proactive step toward building a healthier, more educated, and more prosperous future for Fiji and the entire Pacific.

Ms Devi Stated this strategic move is expected to create a ripple effect, delivering significant benefits across multiple sectors education and employability. The programme will focus on practical, hands on training ensures that participants gain valuable skills that are immediately applicable in the real world.

“Graduates will not only become certified but will also be equipped to tr