A Fijian lecturer, Jekope Maiono, has achieved the prestigious honor of receiving four degrees from the University of Otago in New Zealand. At 45 years old and hailing from Cikobia, Jekope is a native Fijian who graduated as a lecturer at the University of Otago.
Jekope moved to New Zealand in 2006 to pursue his passion for rugby, where he played for the Rewa team and the Tailevu Knights, allowing him to secure a rugby scholarship.
Currently, he is focused on returning to the university to continue his education, given its proximity to Otago University. He has dedicated 13 years to his studies, culminating in several significant qualifications, which include a Bachelor of Commerce in Management, a Master of Sustainable Business, a Postgraduate Certificate in Health Sciences, and a Doctorate in Philosophy with a focus on “Sustainable Land Development in Fiji.”
In 2020, he completed his PhD program, which involved research titled “50 Years of Independence: Indigenous Perception on Sustainable Land Development in Fiji.” He emphasized the importance of reflecting on the 50 years of Fiji’s independence and understanding indigenous perspectives regarding land use and sustainability.
Jekope advocates for returning to rural areas to gather insights from indigenous communities about their views on land use post-independence, highlighting the existing challenges and the complex relationship between indigenous rights and land management practices.
His research addresses two key areas: “land ecology” and the application of indigenous practices, along with “political ecology.” Furthermore, Jekope plans to conduct studies in Cicia, which is known as “Organic Island,” focusing on sustainable land practices for future generations.
Currently, he serves as a lecturer in the business school at the University of Otago, engaging the local community about their experiences, particularly concerning indigenous matters.
Jekope encourages members of the community to consider their goals for the next 50 years, particularly regarding land use management and environmental sustainability.