IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez visiting FNU’s facilities at the Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies

The Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, visited the Fiji National University’s Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies (PCMS) Campus in Nasese last Friday and was impressed by the centre’s world-class, state-of-the-art facilities and highly qualified teaching staff.

The Secretary General had a special “Talanoa” style informal discussion session with the PCMS staff and students, during which he answered several questions about funding and capacity-building opportunities.

“I would like to thank you all for the warm welcome and commend you for the emphasis you are placing on the delivery of quality education to our future seafarers. It was a delight to see how modern and relevant your facilities are, and I look forward to seeing some of you further your studies at the World Maritime University in Sweden,” said Honourable Dominguez.

With FNU’s plans to introduce shipbuilding courses in the near future, the Secretary-General welcomed the initiative and expressed interest in collaborating with the University to support through consultancy for these programmes. He also encouraged FNU to explore the development of greener, cleaner ships that would contribute to protecting the environment.

“We should begin with an analysis of the market and an assessment of the current requirements of the shipping industry. I believe the area in which we can be of greatest assistance to you is through the provision of consultancy services.”

Lanieta Suliano in a conversation with the Secretary General

PCMS Diploma in Nautical Science student, Lanieta Suliano, told Honourable Dominguez that his visit was more than a formality but a powerful symbol.

“Your visit is not just a formality; it is a powerful symbol. A symbol of recognition for the potential that lies within our region, the Pacific, and a sign of commitment by the IMO to empower small island developing states like ours through education, capacity-building, and meaningful engagement,” said an emotional Suliano.

“Many of us sitting here today come from humble beginnings. Some from outer islands, others from coastal communities whose livelihoods are directly tied to the sea. To us, maritime is not just a profession. It is a way of life. It is how we honour our ancestors who were some of the world’s greatest navigators, and how we carry forward the hopes of our families and our nations.”

Suliano added that to hear from the very heart of the global maritime industry, to be seen and heard by the highest office in maritime governance, gives the students strength and motivation to work harder, learn more, and one day lead with integrity, courage, and purpose just as the Secretary General has done.

Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary General of the IMO, plants a tree to commemorate his visit to FNU’s PCMS

The Honourable Secretary General also planted a tree to commemorate his historic visit to PCMS.