Mamere Junior Alefaio, who is originally from Tuvalu, aspires to become an expert in Animal Husbandry after graduating from the Fiji National University (FNU).

Alefaio is currently studying Trade Diploma in Animal Husbandry at FNU’s, College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF). The 25-year-old said she is determined to accomplish her academic goal before heading home to contribute to Tuvalu’s agriculture sector.

“The journey to study at FNU has been wonderful for me because I feel at home with all of the support and love showed to me by my friends, lecturers and tutors,” she explained.

“It’s an exciting course for me because it includes animal care, production and management. Many farmers make their living from animal husbandry.”

Alefaio had previously travelled to Fiji to finish her education at John Wesley College before switching to Dudley High School.

“From 2015 to 2018, I lived in Fiji before returning to Tuvalu to finish my final year of studies,” she said.

“After graduating from high school, I realised I wanted to work with animals and decided to enrol at the Fiji National University. My grandfather used to work on a piggery farm, and I grew up seeing him work there, which sparked my interest and love for animals,” she explained.

“It was a little difficult for me when I first arrived here because of the language barrier, however, that gradually faded, and I was able to socialise and make new friends. Fiji is a beautiful place with a rich culture and friendly people. And it feels great to study at FNU.”

Alefaio is a second-year student who, in her recreational time, enjoys football, rugby, and volleyball. She is also a member of the CAFF volleyball team.

“I have been away from home and family for a while, and I miss them terribly. But I know that I need to stay focused on my goals and dreams. To achieve more in life, one must make sacrifices. I am confident that all my sacrifices will contribute to the realisation of my dream.”

“Sometimes it is difficult, but I’m constantly striving to change and improve myself to be a better person in the future.”

“I want to encourage other regional students not to give up easily, despite the challenges of living away from home. Always be open to new ideas and discuss them with your colleagues.”

Alefaio hopes to graduate later this year.

Students interested in undertaking the Diploma in Animal Husbandry or other programmes at FNU can visit our website at www.fnu.ac.fj for course details, minimum entry and application requirements.

Those who wish to pursue a TVET programme at FNU and study through a placement from TSLS can choose from a range of Certificate III, Certificate IV and Diploma level qualifications.

Students eligible for TSLS-funded studies must have successfully completed Year 12 with a minimum mark of 200/400 or completed Level I and II studies from the Technical College of Fiji or equivalent institutions.

Students are encouraged to register their applications with TSLS whilst applying for their TVET studies at FNU.

For enquiries relating to applications, please send your email to admission@fnu.ac.fj

Applications for Semester 2 is now open.