Milika Ligabalavu has transitioned from a judge to a guidance counselor, a change that has significantly benefited her students. As a qualified lawyer and assistant lecturer at Fiji National University, Ligabalavu has played a pivotal role in shaping a group of law students into highly skilled legal practitioners.
Her efforts culminated in an impressive victory at a Moot competition, where her university clinched the title at an inter-tertiary moot court event. The finals were evaluated by three prominent judges from the High Court.
Ligabalavu shared insights about her background, noting her Fijian father and Papua New Guinea mother. She revealed that being a lawyer is her second career, having previously worked as an Immigration Officer before venturing into law in 2019 after qualifying to the Bar in Fiji. Her journey included a stint at the Citizens’ Constitutional Forum as a Policy and Research Officer before joining the law faculty at FNU in April 2024.
A staunch advocate for helping others, Ligabalavu, the eldest of three siblings, acknowledges her parents’ influence as dedicated educators. As she pursues further studies, including a master’s in law and a Post Graduate Diploma in Social Policy, her passion for personal and professional growth remains evident.
Describing the moot competition as fiercely contested among Fiji National University, the University of Fiji, and the University of the South Pacific, Ligabalavu highlighted the dedication of her team. Comprising students from all four years of the Bachelor of Laws program, the team collaborated tirelessly, demonstrating their unique skills in advocacy and research under challenging time constraints.
The team’s formation began during the first semester break, with members sacrificing their vacation to meet and prepare. Support from the university’s Head of the Department of Law, Assistant Professor Ana Rokomokoti, helped ensure the team’s success, emphasizing the importance of unity and humility throughout the process.
Ligabalavu praised the remarkable growth of each team member, noting how their skills progressed significantly. Emphasizing the importance of teamwork, resilience, and ethical behavior, she expressed pride in their transformation.
The competition’s final round, held at the High Court of Fiji, was the result of extensive preparation and commitment. As the team took the podium, Ligabalavu felt immense pride in their development into confident advocates. Regardless of the competition’s outcome, she considered their growth to be the true victory.
Her students faced numerous challenges, including limited resources and tight deadlines, yet they turned these hurdles into opportunities for learning and success. They started as underdogs and ultimately achieved not only victory in the competition but also personal growth and camaraderie, leaving an indelible mark on Fiji National University.
Ligabalavu’s impact at FNU is profound, ensuring that her legacy will continue through the graduates who will enter Fiji’s legal landscape in the years to come.