The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) and the Sangam School of Nursing today signed a capital grant agreement to support the institution’s ongoing infrastructure development.

Under the 2025–2026 National Budget, the Sangam School of Nursing has been allocated $978,261 as a capital grant. This follows the signing of an operational grant agreement valued at $534,072 in September last year.

In his remarks, HECF Chair, Mr. Steve Chand, emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in the management of government funds, noting that such investments reflect the Government’s continued commitment to strengthening tertiary education.

Mr. Chand also commended the Sangam School of Nursing for its vital role in national development and public health security, particularly in responding to the evolving healthcare needs of Fijian communities.

In response, Mr. Amaraiya Naidu, Chairman of the Academic Board of the Sangam School of Nursing, thanked the Coalition Government for recognizing the institution’s contribution to health education and service delivery. He explained that the new capital grant will fund the construction of a double-storey building housing laboratories and classrooms, allowing students to be accommodated under one roof rather than across rented premises.

Mr. Naidu added that the institution has already completed a 194-seat lecture theatre, financed through the 2024–2025 capital grant, and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to producing well-trained nurses to serve Fiji’s health sector.

The Universal Academy of Beauty Therapy held its Graduation Ceremony on Friday, 30 January 2026, in Nadi, officiated by HECF Director, Dr. Eci Naisele, and accompanied by Team Leader West, Ms. Leba Halofaki.

A total of 16 graduates proudly received their qualifications — 3 from the Certificate III in Beauty Therapy and 13 from Certificate II short courses in Body & Massage Therapy, Eyelash Extension & Nail Technology, Hairdressing & Long Hair Pin-Up, and Makeup.

In his address, Dr. Eci reminded graduates that “today, we celebrate more than certificates — we celebrate transformation.”

He urged them to::

• Keep learning — the beauty and wellness industry is always evolving.

• Honour your craft and culture — the Fijian touch is your unique signature.

• Empower others — success means helping more women and youth rise with you.

Dr. Eci also commended Founder and Director, Ms. Sereana Vusonitokalau, whose global experience inspired her to give back by creating pathways for single mothers and unemployed youth to thrive in Fiji’s beauty, wellness, and hospitality industries.

Congratulations to all graduates — you are shining examples of how education transforms lives and futures!

The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) has been taking a lead role in driving discussions on the regulation of Student Recruitment Agencies to ensure transparency and accountability in their operations.

There is a strong need for collaboration among key stakeholders to ensure all SRAs are properly vetted and registered. Currently, not all agencies operate in full compliance with Fiji’s laws, underscoring the importance of coordinated oversight by relevant regulatory bodies.

HECF and its partners continue to meet to strengthen regulation, improve coordination, and protect students pursuing education opportunities locally and abroad.

It has come to the attention of the Higher Education Commission that certain student
recruitment agencies are operating without the requisite authorization, licensing, or compliance
with applicable laws and regulations. Such activities are unlawful and constitute a breach of
the Higher Education Act 2008 and Higher Education Amendment Act 2017.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Act, the Higher Education Commission is mandated to
safeguard the national interest, protect the rights and welfare of students and parents, and
ensure that all education-related service providers operate in full compliance with established
legal and regulatory standards.
Accordingly, all entities engaged in unauthorized student recruitment or related activities are
hereby directed to immediately cease and desist from such operations. This directive
includes, but is not limited to, the advertising, promotion, or provision of student placement
services without valid accreditation, registration, or licensing, and without full compliance with
all applicable consumer protection and regulatory requirements.
Please be advised that failure to comply with this notice will result in enforcement action,
which may include the imposition of fines and penalties, closure of business premises, and
referral to law enforcement authorities for prosecution.
For clarification or further information regarding this notice, please contact the Higher
Education Commission via email at executiveoffice@hec.org.fj or by telephone on 3100031.

The Queen Victoria School hosted its Annual Awards Day on the 28th of November, 2025 along with the launch of its Strategic Development Plan where the Director of the HECF, Dr Eci Naisele officiated as the Chief Guest.

As a former student of the school, the Director emphasized the importance of having pride in the school and carrying the spirit of a Victorian wherever they go. Together with his enlightenment on the critical role of the FHEC and its standing in the space of higher learning, he stressed the significance of TVET for our disengaged learners. “Education, my friends, is not just a qualification — it is a pathway to dignity, purpose, and hope” were his words in pointing out the fundamentals of education.

Dr. Naisele urged students to stay committed to their education and not become part of the school dropout statistics. He encouraged the Kai Vulinitu to be true leaders — to stand firm against drugs, guide their peers, and embody the values of a true Victorian who leads, protects, and uplifts others.

He reminded students to:

1. Honour God in all they do, as true success begins with humility and faith.

2. Stay curious and keep learning, remaining adaptable in a rapidly changing world.

3. Make choices with integrity, letting honesty, respect, and humility guide their actions.

4. Serve their community and country, using their talents to uplift their families, communities, and Fiji

In this celebration of academic excellence, the school commemorated its milestone achievement in the areas of academic, sports and particularly its SDP. More than 100 students graduated with certificates of recognition and completion certifying their success and contribution in the school.

The Fiji Government has allocated $2,453,478 in capital grant funding to the University of Fiji for the establishment of the Centre for iTaukei and Hindi Studies.

The grant agreement was formally signed by Mr. Ravindra Deo Varaman, a Council Member representing the University of Fiji, on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, and HECF Chair, Mr. Steve Chand, with the signing witnessed by HECF Commission Member, Rt. Inoke Momoedonu.

In his remarks, Mr. Chand reminded attendees of the deeper significance behind such allocations.

“Let us remember that these allocations are not just figures on paper. They represent the hard-earned contributions of Fijians across the country, and they come with an expectation of positive returns for our people and our nation,” he said.

The University of Fiji team expressed their gratitude to the Government for its continued support and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the project delivers meaningful outcomes for Fijian communities.

A groundbreaking ceremony for the new centre is scheduled for 8 December, with the project expected to be completed by 2026.

The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) and the University of the South Pacific (USP) held a special grant signing ceremony to formalize the disbursement of government funding to the regional institution.

In attendance from USP were the USP Council Chair and Pro-Chancellor, the Right Hon. Ulu Atonio Utoikamanu, the Manager Strategic and International Partnerships, Mr. Aneet Kumar, and Ms. Elina Volavola.

Right Hon. Utoikamanu conveyed appreciation to the Fiji Coalition Government for the continued financial support through the special grant. He reaffirmed USP’s commitment to supporting HECF in its initiatives and to further strengthening the partnership between the two institutions.

Speaking at the ceremony, HECF Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Steve Chand, commended USP for its consistency and diligence in meeting reporting requirements.

“We commend USP for its consistent promptness in submitting quarterly acquittals. Your diligence sets a standard for others to follow,” Mr. Chand said.

He further noted that the signing marked more than a routine process.

“Today’s signing is more than a formality—it is a reaffirmation of our shared responsibility. Together, let us ensure that these resources bring tangible benefits, strengthen our communities, and build a prosperous and climate-resilient Fiji,” he added

The Chair of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) ,Mr Steve Chand, who officiated as Chief Guest at the 2025 Pacific Theological College (PTC) Graduation, commended the institution and its graduates for their outstanding academic achievements and contribution to theological education in the Pacific.

In his address, the Chair congratulated the two Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma ministers who made history as the only PhD graduates during this year’s ceremony. He highlighted their accomplishments as a reflection of the growing academic excellence and leadership within Fiji’s higher education landscape.

“It is encouraging to see Pacific Theological College and Pasifika Communities University providing clear pathways for students to pursue higher degrees in theological education. This not only strengthens academic and spiritual leadership within our region but also ensures that knowledge and faith continue to grow hand in hand—equipping graduates to serve their communities with wisdom and integrity,” he said.

Among the graduates, Reverend Dr. Marika Bale achieved a historic milestone as the first minister of the Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma to successfully defend his thesis and be awarded a Doctor of Philosophy from Pasifika Communities University. His achievement is a source of immense pride for the Church, the academic community, and the people of Fiji and Rotuma.

Also recognized was Reverend Dr. Taniela Ratawa, 47, who became the first from his province to graduate with a PhD in Theology and Ethics. He was further honoured with the Pasifika Itulagi Academic Award, the highest academic award of the ceremony.

A total of 77 students graduated from PTC this year, joining the two PhD recipients in celebrating their academic success and commitment to service and faith in the Pacific.

The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) signed a partnership agreement with Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) on 10 November 2025, marking a significant step toward strengthening collaboration and capacity-building within Fiji’s higher education sector.

In announcing the partnership, HECF Chair Mr. Steve Chand said the agreement would enable the placement of skilled volunteers who will work alongside HECF staff on targeted projects that address institutional needs and priorities.

“Through this agreement, we will benefit from the placement of skilled volunteers who will work closely with our staff on assignments that address specific institutional needs and priorities,” Mr. Chand said.

“For HECF, this partnership also aligns with our broader mandate to support continuous professional development and institutional learning. It will help us nurture a culture of innovation, efficiency, and evidence-based decision-making — qualities that are essential for a strong and responsive higher education sector.”

VSA Deputy CEO and Director of Programmes & Volunteer Services, Ms. Michelle Evan, described the partnership as a milestone for VSA, noting that HECF plays a central role in regulating higher education and training in Fiji.

VSA Fiji Programme Manager, Ms. Emma Christopher, also highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating that it would now allow VSA to better coordinate with higher education institutions through HECF.

The agreement marks the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing institutional capacity, knowledge sharing, and collaboration in support of Fiji’s human resource development goals

November marks a season of celebration for many graduates across Fiji, and this year the LDS Church College proudly held its inaugural graduation ceremony for participants in its Adult TVET Programme.

A total of 107 adult learners, with an average age of 35, successfully completed ten weeks of evening classes in 3 National Certificate programmes including Automotive Mechanics (Level 2), Cabinet Making and Joinery (Level 2), Cookery (Level 4), and the Microsoft Office Suite (MOS). The programme was designed primarily for church members, with future intakes expected to include limited spaces for non-members.

The ceremony’s Chief Guest, Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) Director, Dr. Eci Naisele, commended the graduates for their dedication and perseverance in balancing family, work, and study.

In his address, Dr. Naisele highlighted the importance of lifelong learning, saying:

“Lifelong learning is a value that reminds us that education does not end with a certificate or a graduation ceremony—it is a continuous journey of growth and discovery. Each of us continues to learn throughout our lives, adapting to new challenges and opportunities.”

He further encouraged the graduates to apply their new skills for the greater good:

“Use your skills to serve and inspire others. The knowledge and training you have gained are not just for your personal success, but for the betterment of your families, your communities, and our nation. True success lies not only in what you achieve, but in how you use your talents to uplift others. Success is not what you have, but who you become and how you help others rise.”