Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences(CMNHS) proudly welcomed its newest cohort of first-year students with a vibrant and engaging welcome event held at the School of Nursing in Tamavua campus yesterday. The event, designed to help students transition into university life, provided an opportunity for them to connect with faculty, staff and fellow classmates while learning about the resources and support available at FNU.
In her opening remarks, Dr Amelia Turagabeci, Acting Dean for CMNHS emphasised the universities commitment to academic excellence, personal growth and student success. Dr Turagabeci also reminded students of the importance of professionalism in their forthcoming academic journey.
“We are not only training you to become medical practitioners but to grow into well-rounded professionals. You are expected to uphold professionalism in your interactions with colleagues, patients, and the communities you will serve,” Dr Turagabeci said, urging students to set a standard of excellence throughout their time at the university and beyond.
Dr Turagabeci’s remarks aimed to instil a sense of responsibility in the students, who will soon join the ranks of medical practitioners. “Count yourselves fortunate to have made it to the College. You are here because we trust you to succeed in your academic journey, and we believe you have been selected as the best. While you have rights as students, it is crucial that you do not abuse those rights. Being a student at FNU and CMNHS carries responsibilities that will shape your future as medical professionals.”
She also reinforced the idea that professionalism extends far beyond the classroom. “You carry the FNU tag with you even after graduation, so it’s essential to embody the values of professionalism throughout your career,” she added.
Peni Aholoka Feuku Anthony Chan Tavite, a first-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery student from Nukunonu in Tokelau shared his excitement of meeting and greeting first year students at CMNHS.
First-year student enrolled in the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), Peni Aholoka Feuku Anthony Chan Tavite, who hails from Nukunonu in Tokelau, shared his excitement in joining FNU. “I feel incredibly fortunate to be pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery here at FNU. Connecting with peers from various regions has been wonderful,” Tavite expressed. He expanded on his motivations explaining, “My parents are both in the medical field—my mother is a dental surgeon, and my father is a public health officer. Witnessing the need for medical practitioners in my home country inspired me to take this path.”
Ivamere Francis Cavuilagi, a first-year Bachelor of Nursing student from Matainasau village in Naitasiri excited to pursue her dream of becoming a qualified nurse.
Ivamere Francis Cavuilagi, a first-year Bachelor of Nursing student from Matainasau village in Naitasiri, echoed similar sentiments. “I am the first in my family to pursue nursing, as my siblings have all chosen teaching. It means the world to me to be following a path that my late father, Sitiveni Cavuilagi, would have been so proud of,” she expressed her joy.
“Dr Turagabeci’s words about professionalism resonate deeply with me. I know that to honour my father’s memory, I must maintain that professionalism to become a qualified nurse.”
The event featured an informative session highlighting key university services such as academic support, counselling services, UniClinic services, career services, financial aid and scholarships and library access, ensuring that students are aware of the various avenues available to them. There were interactive sessions with faculty members, allowing students to engage in meaningful conversations about their programmes and expectations. Networking opportunities with peers facilitated the formation of connections that would bolster both their academic and social experiences.
FNU remains dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive academic environment. The welcome event marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for first-year students, setting the foundation for their educational journey.