The Fiji School of Medicine (FSM), a historic pillar of healthcare education in the Pacific, celebrated its 140th anniversary recently, marking a remarkable journey from its inception in 1885 to becoming a leading institution within the Fiji National University’s College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences. During a cultural night and closing ceremony, attended by Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro, the institution was lauded for its longstanding contribution to training health professionals who have made significant impacts in Fiji and the broader Pacific region.
Themed “Honouring the past, embracing the future, and celebrating excellence in health professional education,” the event highlighted the institution’s legacy and its commitment to future advancements in medical education. The celebration spanned a week, symbolizing both respect for its historical roots and optimism for the path ahead.
Minister Radrodro acknowledged the pivotal roles FSM alumni have played in public health, especially in research and healthcare delivery, providing leadership during critical times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. He reiterated the government’s dedication to advancing health professional education, aligning with Fiji’s 2021-2026 National Development Plan aimed at fostering a productive and healthy nation. Efforts include strengthening school curricula and promoting STEM pathways to prepare students for tertiary education and the workforce.
Coinciding with these milestones, FSM unveiled a 140th Anniversary Memorial E-Book—a compilation of the institution’s key moments and achievements. This resource serves to inspire both current students and future generations of healthcare professionals, reinforcing FSM’s impact and ongoing influence.
The institution’s commitment to adapting with changing healthcare needs, including the increased prevalence of non-communicable diseases, was highlighted by alumni like Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga. He advocated for significant transformations in medical education to address rapidly evolving health scenarios.
FSM’s anniversary serves not just as a commemoration of past achievements but as a reaffirmation of its dedication to advancing clinical education and healthcare solutions across the region. These celebrations bring together the community, fostering a spirit of collaboration and innovation crucial to nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders who are prepared to meet modern challenges and continue the institution’s legacy of excellence in health professional education.
This ongoing commitment promises a brighter future for healthcare in Fiji and the Pacific, illustrating the power of education and collaboration in building resilient health systems and achieving sustainable health outcomes for all.
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