A total of 991 women out of the 1,906 graduates have graduated from the Fiji National University (FNU) following the conclusion of the three-day graduation ceremony held at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva, marking a significant milestone achievement for the University.
The 991 women included a PhD graduate Dr Sereima Baleisomi, who graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy in Education.
On Day 1, 664 students graduated, of which 444 were females. On Day 2, 531 students graduated, of which 374 were females. On Day 3, 711 students graduated, of which 173 were females.
The graduation ceremony concluded on Day 3 with students from the College of Engineering, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CETVET), the National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC), and the Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies (PCMS). A key highlight of the day was the graduation of 77 students from the apprenticeship programme under NTPC.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Honourable Viliame Gavoka addresses the students at the FNU graduation ceremony.
Chief Guest and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Honourable Viliame Gavoka, commended the University’s continued role in national development.
“Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is no longer viewed as a secondary pathway to success. It is now a strategic pillar of national development and economic resilience,” Honourable Gavoka said.
He added that in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven world, national strength depends not only on academic excellence but also on technical expertise, innovation, and practical skills.
“Fiji’s future will be built by skilled professionals, by engineers, technicians, seafarers, innovators, and problem-solvers, individuals capable of driving industry, strengthening infrastructure, and contributing meaningfully to national progress and sustainable development,” he said.
FNU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba delivers her remarks.
FNU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, said it was encouraging to see strong female representation in traditionally male-dominated fields, particularly within the College of Engineering and Technical Vocational Education and Training (CETVET) and the Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies (PCMS).
“You did not turn away when you saw that you were outnumbered. Instead, you stood your ground and proved that if others can do it, so can you. In doing so, you are breaking barriers and paving the way for those who will follow,” Professor Nabobo-Baba said.
FNU Chancellor and Council Chair, Dr Alisi Talatoka Vudiniabola shares her message to graduating students and their families.
FNU Chancellor and Council Chair, Dr Alisi Talatoka Vudiniabola, emphasised the importance of skilled professionals in Fiji’s development.
“At FNU, we remain deeply committed to supporting the priorities outlined in Fiji’s National Development Plan and our own Strategic Plan 2024–2026 by strengthening workforce capability, improving productivity, advancing innovation, and ensuring that Fiji has a skilled and future-ready labour force,” Dr Vudiniabola said.
“Through practical education, industry partnerships, research, and technical training, FNU continues to play a critical role in helping Fiji build a more resilient, inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future.”
23-year-old Varitema Giblin Rokovesa Drauna graduated with a Diploma in Nautical Science (Level 5).
Among the graduates was 23-year-old Varitema Giblin Rokovesa Drauna from Nailaga, Ba, who was one of six females to graduate from PCMS. She graduated with a Diploma in Nautical Science (Level 5).
For Varitema, the journey to graduation was shaped by the unwavering love and support of her family, particularly her mother and grandparents, to whom she dedicates her achievement.
Varitema expressed pride in her milestone and shared words of encouragement for other young women aspiring to enter maritime fields.
“I want young women to know that the ocean is not a boundary, it is a pathway. If you are willing to learn, stay disciplined, and trust the process, there is space for you in every bridge, every chart room, and every voyage,” she said.
“This journey was not easy, but every challenge taught me resilience. I hope my achievement shows other girls that maritime careers are possible, and they should never limit themselves based on tradition or expectation.”
Only 1 student graduated with a Certificate in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (Avionics) (Level 4) from FNU’s Pacific Centre for Aviation Studies.
The Fiji National University continues to graduate students equipped with the skills, knowledge, and practical training required to meet Fiji’s evolving workforce needs across all sectors.
ENDS