The Institute of Democracy and Electoral Education (IDEE) will serve as the official training arm of the Fiji Elections Office (FEO). The FEO team, led by the Supervisor of Elections, Ms. Ana Mataiciwa, formally received the institution’s Recognition Certificate yesterday ( Tuesday – 04 March 2025) from the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF).

Ms. Mataiciwa emphasized that this achievement reflects the team’s unwavering commitment and is a product of a bold, forward-thinking vision. Since its establishment, the FEO has played a crucial role in training election officials, ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and smoothly. This training not only upholds public trust but also guarantees that elections are properly managed. With IDEE’s creation, there will be increased awareness and strengthened capacity for electoral education across Fiji.

The HECF team congratulated the FEO for this significant initiative and expressed their enthusiasm for IDEE’s future growth and positive impact in Fiji. As IDEE prepares to officially launch its programs later this year, HECF is committed to providing ongoing support to help the institution achieve full registration status

The Honourable Aseri Radrodro, Minister for Education, officially inaugurated the Higher Education Commission of Fiji (HECF) office in Lautoka. This new office comes on the heels of the recently opened Labasa office in the Northern Division, furthering the government’s commitment to providing equal educational opportunities to all Fijians, regardless of their location.

In his address, the Minister highlighted the crucial role of the HECF in maintaining the quality and standards of higher education nationwide. The Lautoka office will serve as a vital center for the Western Division.

During the event, the Minister also launched the 4Rs Online Portal, a new digital platform designed to simplify regulatory processes for higher education institutions in Fiji. The portal streamlines applications for Recognition, Registration, Review, and Renewal of institutions, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability within the sector.

Certificates of Recognition and Registration were awarded to several institutions at the ceremony, including:

• Makeup Academy – Certificate of Recognition
• Institute of Democracy and Electoral Education (Fiji Elections Office) – Recognition
• Vivekananda Technical Centre – Provisional Registration
• Universal Academy of Beauty Therapy – Full Registration
• Australia Pacific Management and Training Pte Ltd – Full Registration
• Chevalier Training Institute – Renewal of Registration
• Ministry of Youth and Sports – Renewal of Registration

Hon. Radrodro encouraged students, parents, and all relevant stakeholders to visit the new office for assistance with higher education inquiries and to utilize the new online portal for a more efficient regulatory process.

This initiative marks a significant advancement in aligning the education sector with the objectives outlined in Fiji’s National Development Plan, addressing labor shortages, and ensuring quality education is accessible to all Fijians

TAFE Queensland International Education General Manager, Russell McKay, along with the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) Country Director Mr McGareth, paid a courtesy visit to the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF). The delegation was received by HECF Chairperson Steve Chand and senior staff.

The meeting focused on strengthening the relationship between HECF and APTC, with Mr. Chand emphasizing the importance of ongoing collaboration. He noted that continued dialogue offers an opportunity for both parties to work closely together, with an emphasis on building capacity and benchmarking programs to align with available resources.

Discussions also centered around finding solutions to current challenges in education and training, as well as shared commitments to improve educational outcomes and expand opportunities for students in Fiji.

Mr. Chand expressed his appreciation for Mr. McKay’s visit and APTC continued support, adding that addressing the skills gap in Fiji remains a priority.

VSA is New Zealand’s largest and most experienced volunteering organization, specializing in international development. Since its inception in 1962, VSA has made a significant impact in the sector, becoming the most trusted volunteer agency in New Zealand. With a range of remote, in-country, and local volunteer programs, VSA offers skilled New Zealand residents the opportunity to contribute abroad and support sustainable development in communities.

A delegation from Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) recently met with the Chairperson of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), Mr. Steve Chand, and senior staff members to explore potential collaboration opportunities. The main objective of the meeting was to discuss how VSA can work alongside HECF to strengthen educational initiatives and foster long-term development.

During the meeting, VSA’s Business Development Manager, Ms. Tomar Porat, emphasized that the organization’s primary focus is on education, both formal and informal. “Education has always been at the heart of our work,” Ms. Porat said.

“We are excited about the prospect of partnering with HECF, as this collaboration will allow us to contribute to the review the qualifications.”

Ms. Porat also highlighted that VSA connects skilled professionals with local communities each year, facilitating knowledge transfer and creating lasting, positive change across the Pacific and beyond.

“Our goal is to ensure that the right resources, skills, and knowledge are shared so that the impact of our volunteers’ work continues long after their assignments, ultimately contributing to a fairer and more sustainable future for all.”

Mr. Steve Chand, Chairperson of HECF, responded positively to the proposed partnership. “This collaboration will help us develop meaningful pathways for students and improve the quality of education. It is crucial to upskill and reskill the workforce, as well as build the capacity of education staff, to create better opportunities for the future of our youth,” Mr. Chand remarked.

The discussions between VSA and HECF mark an important step towards strengthening the educational landscape in Fiji and ensuring that both New Zealand and Fijian communities continue to benefit from shared knowledge and expertise.

The South Pacific Association of Theological Studies (SPATS) is preparing to renew its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), marking a significant step in the advancement of theological education across the Pacific region.

During a recent meeting, HECF Chairperson Steve Chand, alongside senior staff members of the commission, welcomed the SPATS delegation to discuss the renewal of the MOU. This agreement is pivotal in ensuring that theological programmes meet both regional and national standards, promoting consistency and enhancing the overall quality of education within institutions.

Mr. Chand assured that he is happy to proceed with the renewal of the MOU. He further stated that he is pleased to collaborate with SPATS and looks forward to building a healthier relationship between the two organizations.

SPATS, which was founded in 1969, has served as a vital regional agency responsible for accrediting theological schools and their programmes across the Pacific region. It currently boasts 23 member schools from a diverse range of Pacific nations. The MOU’s renewal promises to strengthen these institutions by setting a clear framework for high standards in theological education.

Although the Pacific Qualifications Framework provides a regional benchmark for educational standards, they require additional specialised accreditation to ensure they align with theological and ecclesiastical standards.

Mrs Atelini Koroiwaca ( SPATS) highlighted that the MOU would facilitate the mutual recognition of qualifications, allowing graduates credentials to be recognised across different countries and institutions. This move will streamline mobility and further integration among regional theological institutions.

Koroiwaca also emphasised that the agreement could lead to a greater exchange of resources, expertise, and best practices between theological schools and higher education regulators. This sharing of knowledge and experience will ultimately contribute to improved educational outcomes and the overall development of theological education in the region.

The renewal of this MOU marks an exciting step forward in the collaboration between SPATS and HECF, setting the stage for the continued growth and improvement of theological education in the Pacific.

 The SPATS delegation was led by Atelini Koroiwaca and Sereseini Vuki.

A delegation from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) visited the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) to address key matters regarding the future of their training institution. The team was welcomed by HECF Chair, Mr. Steve Chand, along with senior officers from the Commission.

The primary topic of discussion was the renewal of the RFMF Training Centre’s registration. The RFMF representatives highlighted the need for assistance with an external review of their training programs, as well as a comprehensive assessment of their training systems and policies.

Mr. Chand assured the delegation that as government entities, both the HECF and RFMF can collaborate to resolve these issues. He also shared insights on an initiative with the iTaukei Affairs Ministry through the provincial councils. The initiative empowers provincial councils to provide training at the local level, which Mr. Chand emphasized could play a significant role in addressing the challenge of school dropouts. He also noted that the RFMF could leverage existing national qualification programs to offer students pathways into Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

The RFMF delegation was led by Major Rokowailoa, Staff Officer Training for the Land Force Command (LFC), and included Captain Nasove, Instructor and Officer Commanding at the Officers Training Center (OTC); Lieutenant Lawakeli, Training Designer at OTC; Warrant Officer Tuivakano, Training Warrant Officer; Warrant Officer Class Two Bete Urata; and Captain Berenage.

Mr. Chand emphasized that the HECF is committed to supporting the RFMF and will continue to assist with their training development needs.

In response, Captain Nasove expressed the delegation’s gratitude on behalf of the RFMF team, thanking the HECF for its ongoing support and guidance throughout the registration renewal process

The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) and the Immigration Department are preparing to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in verifying the qualifications of expatriates entering Fiji.

A delegation from the Immigration Department, led by Acting Director Mrs. Taraivini Savou, along with Senior Officers Ms. Varanisese Monika (Policy) and Ms. Rosinimaleya Vulivakarua (Permits), was warmly received by HECF Chair Mr. Steve Chand and senior officials at the Commission today ( Wednesday – 12/02/25).

Mrs. Savou highlighted the importance of the MoU, noting that the Immigration Department has long faced challenges due to the lack of expertise in assessing the qualifications of expatriates.

HECF Chair Mr. Steve Chand expressed his support for the partnership, explaining that the Commission has received numerous complaints in recent years regarding the quality of some expatriates hired by local higher education institutions. He stated that the collaboration will help raise standards in the expatriate hiring process, especially in the education sector.

The MoU will also involve the Ministry of Employment, which will be responsible for vetting expatriate employment contracts. Under the agreement, HECF will focus on verifying academic qualifications, while the Ministry of Employment will ensure the validity of employment contracts.

Further discussions are anticipated before the final MoU is signed, paving the way for more streamlined and effective procedures for the recruitment of expatriates in Fiji.

The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) has signed a capital grant to support the University of Fiji’s Centre for I Taukei Studies, aimed at advancing the preservation and promotion of I Taukei culture, heritage, and academic research.

HECF Chair, Mr. Steve Chand, highlighted the uniqueness of the project, emphasizing its importance for the preservation and promotion of the I Taukei people and their rich cultural traditions.

The signing ceremony was attended by key representatives from the University of Fiji, including Vice Chancellor Ms. Shaista Shameem and Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the University Council, Pundit Bhuwan Dutt.

The project is expected to be completed later this year, marking a significant step forward in fostering the cultural and educational development of I Taukei studies in Fiji.

Earlier this week the TISI Sangam also signed a capital grant to support the building of a state of the art lecture theatre for its nursing school in Labasa.

The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) has announced plans to establish itself as a National Training Provider, offering specialized training programs and qualifications tailored to the water sector.

This proposal was presented to Mr Steve Chand, Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), and his team by Dr. Tess Martin, WAF Consultant, and Mr. Praveen Rajan, Head of Training and Development at WAF.

During the meeting, the WAF team sought guidance on the process of establishing the institution and developing the necessary training programs to meet industry needs.

Dr. Teass expressed that all their questions were thoroughly addressed in the meeting and thanked the HECF team for the support shown.

Mr Steve Chand assured the WAF representatives that the HECF is ready to guide them in pursuing this goal.

The SPC’s Educational Quality and Assessment Programme (EQAP) team met today ( Monday -10 February 2025) with Mr. Steve Chand, Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), and senior officials to discuss key initiatives aimed at capacity building and enhancing their collaborative efforts.

The discussions focused on strengthening the capabilities of the HECF and fostering a closer working relationship between the two organizations.

The EQAP team presented on areas where they can provide support. They also outlined potential directions for future collaboration, emphasizing the importance of aligning with regional education goals and advancing the higher education sector in Fiji

The EQAP delegation was led by Rajendra Prasad, Qualifications Team Leader, and included Ms. Selai Waqainabete Nainoaca, Educational Assessment Officer, and Ms. Uma Devi.