The Higher Education Commission of Fiji (HECF) confirms that nine higher education institutions have signed grant agreements as part of the $86.5 million allocation provided by the Coalition Government for the 2025–2026 financial year.
The funding supports operational needs of registered institutions, with a focus on improving teaching and learning, research, and institutional capacity building. A total of 13 institutions have been approved for funding, with the remaining agreements to be finalised in the coming weeks.
The institutions that have signed grant agreements to date include:
- University of Fiji
- Pasifika Communities University*
- Fulton Adventist University College
- Monfort Boys Town
- Monfort Technical Institute
- Sangam Institute of Technology
- Vivekananda Technical Centre
- Pacific Technical Institute*
- Davuilevu Theological College*
(*First-time grant recipients)
During the official signing ceremony held in Suva, HECF Chairperson Mr. Steve Chand reaffirmed the Commission’s strong commitment to ensuring that all publicly funded programmes lead to meaningful employment outcomes.
“We have seen a situation where thousands of graduates remain unemployed because institutions were offering qualifications that held no real value in the job market,” he said. “This must change.”
“ In the spirit of transparency and accountability, I want to emphasize the vital role each of us plays in ensuring that this investment is used wisely and fulfills its intended purpose,” Mr Chand stressed.
“Let us not forget that the government’s investment in our endeavors is an expression of their trust in our ability to generate a positive return on investment. We owe it to the taxpayers and to ourselves to demonstrate that this trust is well-placed.”
Mr Chand noted that institutions must align their programmes with national priorities, particularly in addressing critical skills gaps identified in the National Development Plan Vision 2050.
“This funding must directly contribute to building a skilled workforce that drives Fiji’s economic and social development,” explained the HECF Chair.
