Fiji National University (FNU) graduate Grace Sovalawa emphasized the need for more women in the field of land surveying during the institution’s Open Day in Nasinu on Friday.
“I primarily learned to use AutoCAD, both 2D and 3D, along with various surveying techniques for different land types,” Ms. Sovalawa stated. She also noted the course’s extension into architecture and engineering requirements, including building construction.
The 21-year-old from Suvalailai, Rewa, earned her diploma in Land Surveying after three years of study. “This field is accessible to everyone, but for women, joining a male-dominated field can be quite challenging due to potential pushback. However, determination can lead to success in this profession,” she indicated.
Ms. Sovalawa pointed out that there is a shortage of land surveyors in Fiji, urging more women to consider this career path. She believes that it suits women who enjoy outdoor activities such as camping and sightseeing.
“A few students find calculations challenging since this program involves a lot of math and physics, but peer support is available,” she shared. The requirements for enrollment in the program include passing both English and Math, with a minimum score of 200 out of 400.
She also mentioned that extracurricular options provided by the university include the Fiji University Sports Association (FUSA) games and debate competitions. “One significant benefit of this course is the ability to transfer credits to the University of the South Pacific (USP) to pursue Geographic Information System (GIS) studies,” she explained. “Additionally, students can apply for scholarships abroad.”
Currently, Ms. Sovalawa works as a chainman/survey technician at KGenesis Engineering and Consultant Pte Ltd.