The University of Fiji is paving the way for an ambitious and forward-thinking agenda for 2025, putting special emphasis on distinctive iTaukei academic programs. This initiative aims to honor and preserve the rich iTaukei culture, with the establishment of the Centre for iTaukei Studies (CIS), which is the only dedicated center of its kind in Fiji.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem pointed out the center’s pivotal role in providing specialized education that centers around iTaukei culture. She noted, “Our Centre for iTaukei Studies is unique because it’s the only one in Fiji. We’re the only university that offers a dedicated center that is specifically for iTaukei studies—that means culture, language, performance, art, and craft.”
In a noteworthy advancement, the university intends to extend the center’s educational capabilities to Levuka. Here, traditional chiefs will be appointed as adjunct professors, thereby creating a unique opportunity for the community to learn directly from their elders about the nuances of their cultural heritage. Professor Shameem elaborated that this initiative would significantly enrich the learning experience for the residents of Lomaiviti.
In addition to cultural initiatives, the University of Fiji is also making notable advances in the fields of science and technology, particularly focusing on emerging disciplines like robotics. Professor Shameem stated, “We are concentrating very much on things that are topical at this moment in time, which is, for example, robotics, artificial intelligence, blockchain work as well.” She emphasized the importance of cultivating an understanding of artificial intelligence, its benefits, and its social implications.
Moreover, Professor Shameem reaffirmed the university’s dedication to promoting student well-being and success, stating, “Everything that the University of Fiji will be doing in 2025 will be new and innovative.” This ambition to differentiate itself by being at the forefront of quality education creates a hopeful outlook for the future of higher education in Fiji.
The University of Fiji’s aspirations for 2025 encapsulate a commitment to distinct academic offerings, the preservation of cultural heritage, and advancements in technology, positioning itself as a benchmark in higher education within Fiji and beyond.
This approach not only sets a precedent for integrating traditional culture with modern education but also promises a brighter future for students, equipping them with a rich understanding of their past while preparing them for the challenges of the future.
Leave a comment