The Fiji National University (FNU) has successfully concluded its 2025 Conference focused on Resetting Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Higher Education, held at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Nadi. Titled “Transforming Skills, Shaping Futures: The New Era for FNU,” the two-day gathering brought together educators, industry leaders, and policymakers to address pressing educational challenges facing Fiji.

In his keynote address, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Seru Kamikamica emphasized the urgency of the conference’s theme, stating that it highlights the unique challenges and opportunities for Fiji as a developing island nation. Kamikamica stressed the importance of reforming the TVET and Higher Education sectors to not only help citizens survive but flourish in today’s dynamic landscape. “Education is the great equalizer, the key to unlocking individual potential and national prosperity,” he stated.

Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, Vice-Chancellor of FNU, reinforced the university’s commitment to enhancing its educational framework. She indicated that the conference emerged from a newly refreshed Strategic Plan aimed at reassessing FNU’s curriculum for the 2024–2026 academic years. Through collaborative efforts among FNU, the University of the South Pacific, and other regional educational institutions, the conference fosters a spirit of collective advancement in the Pacific.

Moreover, the insights shared during the conference align with broader efforts within Fiji to bolster education quality and tackle skills shortages. With ongoing initiatives aimed at equipping the workforce with relevant skills, the government is actively supporting programs that aid micro, small, and medium enterprises, thereby promoting economic resilience.

The conference not only marks a commitment to educational reform but also serves as a hopeful platform for the future of Fiji’s youth, ensuring they are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to society.

In summary, the successful conclusion of the FNU conference points towards a transformative period in Fiji’s education sector, underscoring the vital role of education in driving national development and resilience. By investing in education and partnerships, Fiji is positioning itself for a brighter future built on skilled leadership and innovation.