The Fiji National University (FNU) is proud to announce that its Head of the Department of Accounting, Sanjeev Sen, has become the first lecturer from the university to qualify for the inaugural Pacific Island Nature-based Solutions (NbS) Micro-Qualification course.
Selected from over 400 candidates across the Pacific region, Sen’s achievement marks a notable milestone in advancing climate resilience and sustainable development within Fiji’s academic community.
The four-week NbS Micro-Qualification course began on 28 October and will conclude on 20 November 2025. This pioneering initiative is funded by the Kiwa Initiative, developed by Auckland University of Technology (AUT), and delivered through a collaborative effort involving Griffith University, the Pacific Community (SPC), and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).
This innovative programme aims to equip participants with practical skills to design and implement nature-based solutions that bolster ecosystems, support local communities, and enhance resilience to the impacts of climate change.
“This micro-qualification will be invaluable for my PhD research and aligns with the university’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 13 — Climate Action. It will also enrich our College’s curriculum, particularly in courses related to climate change within our accounting programme,” Sen said.
He emphasised the importance of community involvement in climate action, saying,
“Talking about climate change and resilience isn’t just for scientists; it’s everyone’s responsibility. As an accountant, I believe it’s crucial to understand the environmental impacts of our work and advocate for sustainable practices.”
Sen further reflected on his extensive career, noting his 27 years of experience in the civil service and academia.
His pursuit of a PhD, focusing on “A Review of Fiji’s Readiness and Implementation Challenges on Climate-Related Disclosures,” is complemented by his participation in the NbS Micro-Qualification.
“This course will support my research, especially in quantifying the impacts of climate change in monetary terms. Natural solutions play a vital role in avoiding or lessening these impacts, and I am excited to incorporate this knowledge into my work and teaching.”
The Dean of the College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS), Dr. Asaeli Tuibeqa, congratulated Sen on his achievement.
“We commend Sen for his dedication and pioneering spirit in obtaining this micro-qualification. It demonstrates his commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience, which are critical themes for our College and the broader university community. Such initiatives are essential in fostering innovative approaches to climate action within our curriculum and research.”
“The College recognises the vital role that understanding nature-based solutions plays not only in environmental sustainability but also in preparing our students for the challenges of a changing climate. Sen’s success reflects FNU’s commitment to leadership in this vital area.”
His accomplishment underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to climate change and highlights the growing integration of environmental considerations into business and accounting education in Fiji.
For more information, visit the FNU website at http://www.fnu.ac.fj.
ENDS