SUVA, Fiji – The Fiji National University (FNU) has expressed its pride in the appointment of Associate Professor and Acting Director of Learning & Teaching, Dr. Lavinia Tiko, to the Fiji Education Commission. This appointment marks a significant advancement for Early Childhood Development (ECD) and national education reform initiatives in the country.
Dr. Tiko stands out as the only Early Childhood Development specialist from Fiji on the Commission. She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise that spans not just early learning but the education system as a whole. Her involvement ensures a strong representation of Early Childhood Education in critical discussions surrounding national reforms, with a focus on developing policies that are guided by comprehensive evidence from across the educational landscape.
Known for her systemic approach to education, Dr. Tiko engages in various aspects of curriculum and assessment, policy formulation, and learning evaluation. Her work is deeply rooted in Indigenous and Pacific knowledge systems, making sure that the national education reforms are aligned with global standards while being culturally sensitive and pertinent to local contexts.
“This initiative aims to strengthen the entire education continuum, from early childhood education to lifelong learning, fostering inclusive systems that reflect the realities of our communities and empowering learners to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world,” stated Dr. Tiko.
As a member of the Commission, Dr. Tiko is involved in advancing forward-thinking reforms that address pressing issues such as climate justice, food security, gender equity, and social protection. Her leadership plays a critical role in shaping education policies that enhance resilience and promote fair outcomes for all students.
The Fiji Education Commission, established by the Fijian government, serves as a national advisory body tasked with conducting a thorough review of the education system from Early Childhood Education through to tertiary levels and lifelong learning. The Commission provides guidance to the government on systemic reforms designed to create an education system that is inclusive, cohesive, future-oriented, and aligned with national developmental priorities.
In fulfilling its mission, the Commission focuses on essential areas including education policy and legislation, curriculum assessment, professional development for educators, equity, access, governance, and system coherence. Its objective is to improve the quality and relevance of education while enhancing learning outcomes for all students. The insights generated by the Commission aim to inform long-term national reforms in education that resonate with local cultures and meet global educational commitments.
Dr. Tiko’s role in the Commission strengthens FNU’s reputation as a leader in policy-relevant research and Pacific-centered education reform. Her contributions exemplify FNU’s dedication to fostering resilient, equitable, and sustainable futures for Fiji and the broader Pacific region. This uplifting development not only highlights the commitment to improving education in Fiji but also reinforces the importance of incorporating local knowledge in the reform process.
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