The University of Fiji’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Shaista Shameem, has announced the passing of the esteemed Professor of Education and Dean of the School of Humanities and Arts, Professor Tupeni Baba.
Professor Baba joined the University of Fiji in 2017 and was known for his intellectual leadership and unwavering commitment to his students and colleagues.
A distinguished scholar and respected humanitarian, Professor Baba also held significant roles in government, including Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister. His ardent push for educational reform, rooted in his deep passion for improving Fiji’s education system, sometimes brought him into conflict with higher authorities. However, his dedication to academic integrity and progress remained influential both within the university and beyond.
“The University has lost a great academic, and the nation a deep intellectual. We will miss him,” expressed Vice Chancellor Shameem, who also extended her heartfelt condolences to Professor Baba’s family, especially to his wife, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, Vice Chancellor of the Fiji National University.