Fiji’s first female Conservator of Forests, Sanjana Lal, is set to take on the role of acting Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry.
With almost 30 years of experience in the civil service, Lal steps into the position following the resignation of the former acting Permanent Secretary, Rovereto Nayacalevu, last month.
Lal holds a Bachelor of Forestry Science from the Australian National University and Postgraduate Diplomas in Business Leadership, Public Administration, and Conservation Biology from the University of the South Pacific.
After receiving her appointment letter from the Public Service Commission (PSC) yesterday, Lal expressed her humility at being chosen for the role.
“I am humbled that the PSC deemed me deserving of this post,” she said.
Despite having other plans, Lal decided to prioritize the ministry’s needs, especially with the increased workload anticipated as the new financial year approaches in less than three weeks.
“I am also grateful for the opportunity. When the Government calls, we must step up and serve the nation. I am merely holding the fort until the ministry or PSC finds a permanent candidate for the position,” she added.
PSC chair Luke Rokovada affirmed Lal’s qualifications for the role.
“Ms. Lal has the qualifications, knowledge, and experience to assume the role, and I am confident that she will be able to perform the duties required of her as the Acting Permanent Secretary for Fisheries and Forestry,” Rokovada said.