The University of Fiji has launched a Press Club as part of events marking its 21st anniversary, establishing a new campus platform aimed at strengthening journalism education and preparing students for roles in Fiji’s media landscape.
Parliament Speaker and University Chancellor Filimone Jitoko used the launch to underline the vital role journalists play in upholding democracy and transparency. “Access to information is a human right and a pillar of democracy. As future journalists, this right is the foundation of your work,” Jitoko said, framing the club’s creation as more than an extracurricular offering but as part of the broader civic duty of reporting.
Jitoko’s address stressed the heightened responsibility that comes with reporting in the digital age. He urged students to prioritise verification and to actively combat misinformation, warning that careless use of social media can “distort truth and divide communities.” He called on the new club’s members to adhere to ethical standards, report accurately and promote transparency in public life.
Organisers say the Press Club will provide students with opportunities to develop practical journalism skills and engage with the realities of Fiji’s media sector. By creating a formal space for reporting, discussion and training, the university aims to bridge classroom learning with hands-on experience that can help students navigate issues such as source verification, editorial ethics and the impacts of digital platforms on public discourse.
The launch comes at a time when concerns about misinformation and the role of social media in shaping public opinion are frequent topics of debate across the Pacific. Jitoko’s dual role as both Parliament Speaker and chancellor of the university lent additional weight to his call for responsible journalism, linking academic training to the democratic functions of scrutiny and accountability.
While the Press Club’s initial activities and programme calendar have not been detailed publicly, the university’s decision to inaugurate the club during its anniversary celebrations signals a renewed institutional focus on media literacy and professional development. The initiative positions the University of Fiji as a contributor to efforts to strengthen journalism education in the country, equipping students to engage with complex civic issues and to contribute constructively to national conversations.
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