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.
