The Fiji National University (FNU) has reported a staggering loss of nearly $10 million associated with the Naiyaca Campus project in Labasa, as outlined in its 2024 annual report. This $9.9 million loss heightens concerns over the extensive taxpayer funds expended since the project’s inception in 2013, which was initially estimated to cost $30 million.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro disclosed these findings during a recent parliamentary session, revealing significant financial irregularities identified in an independent audit. He indicated that following assessments by three independent engineering reports in March 2025, the FNU council decided to demolish the structural foundations due to safety concerns and unacceptable structural failures.
Amidst the losses, Radrodro emphasized the university’s commitment to moving forward with the Naiyaca Campus project, with plans to open by the first semester of 2027. He stated that the FNU management and council have enhanced oversight over capital projects and are dedicated to ensuring governance standards, proper evaluations, and robust risk management moving forward.
The university plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Works to define specific project terms and is preparing to call for public tenders for campus design. This proactive stance underscores the hope for a brighter future despite setbacks. The management aims not just to rebuild but to create a facility with modern amenities, aimed at significantly improving educational access for the youth in the northern division.
Reflecting on the commentary from former Vice-Chancellor Professor Nigel Healey, it is clear that while the Naiyaca Campus project has been marred by financial mismanagement, delays caused by a flood-prone site, contractor difficulties, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, there remains a hopeful outlook. The project’s completion could still serve as a vital resource for enhancing educational opportunities in the region and revitalizing the local community.
The focus on strong governance, strategic planning, and community investment can pave the way for successful educational initiatives that truly address the needs of the population and contribute to economic growth in Vanua Levu. The Naiyaca Campus stands as a symbol of resilience and a potential transformative force for the future.
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