Education Minister and SODELPA Leader Aseri Radrodro has expressed his strong support for Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s decision to shift management oversight of the Fiji National University (FNU) from the Ministry of Education to the Ministry of Strategic Planning. This move is part of a strategic initiative aimed at better integrating FNU with national development priorities, according to Radrodro.
Radrodro emphasized that this decision embodies a whole-of-government approach to enhancing the institution’s effectiveness. He pointed out that FNU plays a critical role as a dual-sector university, offering both higher education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Positioning the university closer to national development frameworks aligns it with broader goals, he noted.
Following the Prime Minister’s directive, Radrodro has officially informed the FNU Council of this change. He addressed any potential concerns regarding the transition by assuring students, staff, and stakeholders that this reassignment does not diminish the government’s commitment to education. Instead, he categorizes the shift as a progressive strategy intended to fortify FNU’s role in fostering workforce development, economic resilience, and fulfilling Fiji’s long-term vision.
In his remarks, Radrodro called for unity among FNU staff, council members, and students, urging them to stay concentrated on their academic and institutional duties throughout this period of change. He reaffirmed that SODELPA joined the coalition government with a spirit of collaboration, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility and respect in supporting the Prime Minister’s leadership.
Under the regulations set forth in the FNU Act, the university’s oversight is designated to the Minister responsible for tertiary education, ensuring that the transition adheres to established governance principles while aiming for enhanced operational alignment with national objectives. This initiative reflects a commitment to growing the education sector in a way that supports Fiji’s evolving economic landscape.
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