Fiji’s first female Conservator of Forests, Sanjana Lal, is honored and ready to take on the role of acting Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry.
With nearly 30 years of experience in the civil service, she succeeds the former acting PS, Rovereto Nayacalevu, who resigned last month.
Ms. Lal holds a Bachelor of Forestry Science from the Australian National University and Postgraduate Diplomas in Business Leadership, Public Administration, and Conservation Biology from the University of the South Pacific.
She received her appointment letter from the Public Service Commission (PSC) yesterday and described the appointment as a deeply humbling experience.
“I am humbled that the PSC considered me suitable for this position,” she said.
Although she had other plans, Ms. Lal answered the ministry’s call of duty, prioritizing its needs, especially with the significant workload anticipated as the new financial year approaches in less than three weeks.
“I am also grateful for the opportunity. When the Government calls, we must step up and serve the nation.”
“I am merely holding the position until the ministry or PSC finds a permanent candidate for the role,” she added.
PSC chair Luke Rokovada stated that she deserved the appointment due to her qualifications.
“Ms. Lal has the qualifications, knowledge, and experience to take on this role, and I am confident she will effectively perform the duties required of her as the Acting PS for Fisheries and Forestry,” he said.