The Fiji National University (FNU) has received a major $4.5 million investment from the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research Pacific Agriculture Scholarships and Support (ACIAR PASS) to strengthen scholar, staff, and supervisor development.
The announcement was made during a special ceremony held on Thursday 21 May 2026 to commemorate graduates who completed their studies through the FNU and ACIAR scholarship programmes.
FNU Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Paul Iji, said the partnership with ACIAR had grown remarkably since its establishment in 2020.
“We now have 11 graduates, with five supported through FNU Awards and six through ACIAR scholarships,” Professor Iji said.
“I would like to once again acknowledge ACIAR for the tremendous contribution they have made to FNU. To date, they have funded 30 scholarships for staff and students who are at various stages of their academic journeys. The programme has expanded steadily since its establishment in 2020.”
He said the newly signed agreement would significantly expand opportunities beyond student scholarships.
“The new $4.5 million agreement will not only support scholars but will also strengthen staff capability and postgraduate supervision development. We anticipate even more graduates at the December graduation ceremony and many more in the years ahead,” he added.
Professor Iji also highlighted the prestige of the FNU Awards, describing them as highly competitive and reflective of academic excellence.
“We intend to establish a dedicated alumni network for these graduates so they can proudly be recognised as FNU Scholars. I congratulate all graduates on successfully completing their studies and making the most of these opportunities. I also commend the supervisors who guided the students throughout their postgraduate journeys,” he said.
(From left) ACIAR programme graduate Fazilat Bibi with her supervisor, Dr Sofia Ali.
Among the graduates recognised was Fazilat Bibi from Vatulaulau, Ba, who graduated with a Master by Research in ICT and Science Education from FNU’s College of Humanities, Education and Law (CHEL).
Bibi attributed her research journey to her longstanding passion for chemistry.
“Chemistry has always been my favourite subject. During my teaching career, I noticed that some concepts were particularly challenging for students to understand. This encouraged me to explore innovative approaches to make learning more engaging and effective,” she said.
Her research focused on the use of ChemSketch software to enhance the teaching and learning of chemistry through ICT in secondary schools.
“My study examined how ChemSketch can improve students’ understanding of complex chemistry concepts through the use of educational technology. I also hope to collaborate with the Ministry of Education in the future to support the integration of this software into secondary schools,” Bibi added.
Bibi acknowledged the guidance and support of her supervisors, Dr Sofia Ali and Professor Nii-K Plange. The 28-year-old will shortly commence her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) studies in the same field.
ENDS