Fiji National University’s (FNU) pioneering Bachelor of Border Management (Customs) programme is a comprehensive initiative designed to equip students with the specialised skills needed to address the rapidly evolving challenges of international travel and cross-border trade.
Led by FNU’s Head of School – Economic Development and Border Management, Rusiate Vakaloloma and other keys architects of the programme namely Professor David Widdowson, Lorima Vosa, the late Watisoni Rauicava, and Joseph Mauitoga this initiative responds directly to industry concerns over the quality of customs graduates and aims to bolster Fiji’s role as a regional hub for border security and trade.
“This programme is uniquely positioned to confront contemporary border issues, including drug trafficking and human smuggling, which have become pressing concerns for Fiji and the wider Pacific region. By integrating specialised courses such as transnational organised crime, border security, and maritime enforcement, taught by renowned international experts the programme prepares students to respond effectively to complex trade and security environments,” Vakaloloma explained.
Developed in close collaboration with the Oceania Customs Organisation and the Centre of Customs and Excise Studies (CCES) at Charles Sturt University, the programme benefits from international expertise and is accredited by the World Customs Organisation (WCO). With a team comprising mostly former Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) officers, Vakaloloma highlighted the curriculum emphasises practical, real-world knowledge aligned with international standards. Classes are delivered through a mix of online and face-to-face formats, ensuring accessibility for regional students and working professionals alike.
“Our focus is on building a highly skilled border management workforce capable of safeguarding our region’s security and supporting sustainable economic development,” said Vakaloloma. “Fiji’s strategic position makes it a critical gateway, and our graduates will play vital roles in countering illicit activities and facilitating legitimate trade. The curriculum will be delivered by former FRCS staff and our counterparts from the Centre of Customs and Excise Studies in Canberra,” he said.
“As Fiji continues to face regional border security challenges, the Bachelor of Border Management (Customs) programme represents a significant step forward in developing a resilient, professional workforce equipped to meet the demands of today’s complex international landscape.”
The programme also emphasises analytical skills, with assessments based on continuous reflection, scenario analysis, and role plays, fostering decision-making capabilities in dynamic environments. Students benefit from practical attachments within government agencies such as Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, gaining invaluable hands-on experience.
Looking ahead, FNU plans to expand the programme into specialised streams such as biosecurity, taxation, and immigration, alongside the introduction of postgraduate qualifications. Short online courses in areas like human trafficking and maritime enforcement are also slated for launch in 2026.
The application window for Semester 2, 2025, will be open from 23 June to 18 July. Required documentation includes birth certificate, Tax Identification Number (TIN), and academic results. Mature applicants are advised to bring their CVs to support their applications.