A new tertiary education institution has officially registered under the Higher Education Commission, providing enhanced opportunities for students in Fiji and across the Pacific. The establishment, Oceania Education and Technology Solutions, was launched with three subsidiaries: the Oceania Institute of Technology, Pacific Study Hub, and Canterbury Language Academy.
Founder and CEO Hasmukh Lal stated that this initiative aims to transform Fiji into an international hub for education tourism. The project represents a $1 million investment, partially financed by Lal’s personal contributions alongside a loan secured from HFC Bank. This investment is expected to help students acquire valuable skills in both Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and academic disciplines.
Lal emphasized the enormous potential of Fiji’s education sector, drawing comparisons with Australia, which generates approximately $51.5 billion from international education and education tourism—about 19 times Fiji’s national budget. He highlighted Fiji’s strategic geographical advantage, being just two to three hours ahead of Australia with robust airline connections to numerous countries.
After undergoing stringent compliance checks lasting five to six months, the new institution will now provide a range of certificates, diplomas, and advanced diplomas in disciplines such as technology, banking, and finance. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka, present as the chief guest, expressed that the launch demonstrates a strong vote of confidence in Fiji’s educational future. He noted that this development will not only diversify the economy but also enhance educational opportunities and establish Fiji as a center of knowledge, innovation, and potential in the Pacific region.
This new educational venture not only fosters local skill development but positions Fiji attractively on the global education map, igniting hope for a brighter economic and educational future in the region.
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