A remarkable evening unfolded at the Fiji National University’s (FNU) Vice-Chancellor’s Research Excellence Awards 2024, at the Holiday Inn in Suva on Thursday.
Viliame Sakiti made history by winning the inaugural Vice-Chancellor’s special award. This prestigious accolade recognises and celebrates research achievement with a high impact on the community.
The night’s event was preceded by awards in the regular categories for Graduate students; Early-Mid-career staff, and established staff. These categories were won by Dr Ashnita Krishna (College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences); Dr Moshmi Bhim (College of Humanities, Education and Law), and Dr Shipra Shah (College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry), respectively. The regular categories were won by researchers in the higher education sector of the University, noting that FNU is a dual-sector institution.
Sakiti’s award represents a strong contribution from the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector of the University, and was identified by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, after whom the research awards are named. It is an award for having a high impact on the community, and Sakiti’s award satisfies this requirement. He developed a building material, aptly named Eco-Brick, a unique blend of sand, clay soil, and cement designed to provide affordable housing solutions.
Sakiti is a Senior Instructor at the College of Engineering and Technical, Vocational and Education and Training (CETVET) at the Derrick campus in Samabula. His PhD research focuses on the development of innovative building materials, specifically ‘eco-bricks’.
Viliame Sakiti receives the inaugural Vice-Chancellor’s special award at the Fiji National University’s (FNU) Vice-Chancellor’s Research Excellence Awards 2024 at the Holiday Inn in Suva on Thursday, 24 April 2024.
“The aim of my research is to create building materials that are both cost-effective and sustainable. This initiative is the first of its kind in Fiji, utilising a specific type of clay soil with a required strength of 23 MPa (Mega Pascal). This is significantly stronger than conventional blocks available in Fiji. I am constructing a model house in Dreketi using mud bricks combined with bamboo. The project is undergoing a six-month analysis, and in May, I will construct the final model house in Vanua Balavu,” Sakiti explained.
In his welcome address, FNU’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Professor Paul Ade Iji, acknowledged the interdisciplinary nature of research being conducted at the university. “FNU faculty and students are engaged in research across various fields, impacting real-world issues while also embracing blue-sky research for unexpected innovations.”
Professor Iji further congratulated the nominees for their significant contributions to FNU’s research landscape across diverse domains, including agriculture, health, engineering, education, and tourism. “The nominees we honour today have played a vital role in advancing knowledge and addressing pressing issues in Fiji and the South Pacific,” he said.
Pro-Vice-Chancellor Learning and Teaching Professor Jimaima Lako highlighted that the occasion is not merely a celebration of research completion. Instead, it signified the beginning of new opportunities. “As you step into this next chapter, the future is yours to shape. Your journey has only just begun,” Professor Lako stated.
“To our awardees, remember that research and innovation don’t stop here. The world is full of opportunities and challenges. Each of you has the potential to make a meaningful impact. Nurture your curiosity and pursue your dreams without hesitation,” she encouraged.
The Chief Guest and Assistant Minister for Education, Honourable Iliesa Vanawalu emphasised FNU’s strategic role in contributing to the Government’s National Development Plan 2017-2036. “Research creates pathways to sustainable solutions. It enhances our socio-economic capacity and empowers our communities,” Vanawalu said.
Vanawalu stressed that FNU’s research agenda aligns not only with national priorities but also with broader global objectives. “Through diverse studies, we are tackling social, economic, and environmental challenges facing our communities. These works have real-world implications that help people thrive.”
Vanawalu also commended Dr Kasanita Nayasi, the first iTaukei woman to earn a PhD from FNU. “She is setting an inspiring example for future generations. Dr Nayasi embodies dedication and transforms lives through education. Her efforts reconnect our youth with their cultural roots, positively impacting both the education system and the wider community.”
Dr Sakul Kundra, Associate Dean of the College of Humanities, Education, and Law added that the new award has the power to inspire researchers to pursue excellence in their impactful work. “This recognition aligns with FNU’s Strategic Plan for 2024-2026, particularly within the priority area of research and innovation. It contributes to FNU’s Vision 2037 goals by addressing sustainable solutions for Fiji and the Pacific. It plays a crucial role in overcoming complex challenges represented in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Successful research can influence the university’s global rankings,” he added.
The main awards ceremony celebrated researchers’ achievements across three categories, recognising their hard work and dedication. Winners were presented with awards while nominees received certificates honouring their contributions.
This year’s awards not only highlighted individual efforts but also reinforced FNU’s commitment to fostering a robust research culture. The evening concluded on a hopeful note, inspiring all to keep pushing the boundaries of knowledge and making a difference in their communities.
For more information visit the FNU website at http://www.fnu.ac.fj
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