Fiji’s University Leads the Way in Cultural and Tech Education!

The University of Fiji is taking significant strides toward a forward-thinking academic framework for 2025, with a strong focus on developing unique iTaukei academic programs. A key initiative is the establishment of the Centre for iTaukei Studies (CIS), marking it as the sole center dedicated exclusively to iTaukei culture in Fiji. This center aims to both preserve and celebrate indigenous knowledge by providing specialized education encompassing language, culture, performance, art, and craft.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem emphasized the center’s significance in maintaining iTaukei culture’s visibility within the academic realm, stating, “Our Centre for iTaukei Studies is unique because it’s the only one in Fiji.” In a pioneering expansion plan, the university has decided to extend the center’s educational influence to Levuka, where traditional chiefs will be appointed as adjunct professors. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement by enabling elders to impart knowledge on cultural traditions, enhancing local education.

On the technology front, the University of Fiji is also advancing its science and technology programs with a strong emphasis on emerging disciplines such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology. Professor Shameem reinforced the importance of these fields, particularly artificial intelligence, by addressing its societal roles, limitations, and potential risks.

The vision for 2025 that the University of Fiji is striving for highlights a commitment to provide unique academic offerings while prioritizing cultural preservation and technological innovation. This ambitious approach not only positions the university as a leader in higher education in Fiji but also aims to create a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for the future.

Overall, the University of Fiji’s initiatives echo a promising vision that marries cultural heritage with modern advancements, ensuring that students are equipped with knowledge and skills relevant to the evolving global landscape. This proactive approach could serve as a template for other educational institutions aiming to blend tradition with innovation.