The Fiji National University (FNU) agriculture students will soon undertake an 11-month practical training programme in Israel under a new partnership with the Ramat Negev International Training Centre (RNIT).

The opportunity follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between FNU and RNIT at the University’s Bonunaqwele Campus in Nadi today.

The programme will provide students from FNU’s College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF) with hands-on industry experience, practical skills and international exposure to modern agricultural practices.

The partnership also promotes knowledge exchange and collaboration between the two institutions in advancing sustainable agriculture, innovation and food security.

Mayor of the Ramat Negev Regional Council of the State of Israel, Mr Eran Doron, said that despite rapid technological advancements, the need for healthy and nutritious food remained constant.

“Everything is moving so fast, but one thing that remains constant is that people still need to eat,” Mr Doron said.

“No matter how advanced technology gets, people will always need healthy and nutritious food. I am sure we can cooperate on issues that can help secure food security.”

FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said Israel was internationally recognised as a leader in agricultural innovation, making the partnership a valuable opportunity for FNU students.

“Today’s signing for us marks a long and fruitful relationship. As long as we are here, we will make sure we build renewed trust and respect, share learning and demonstrate a common commitment,” Professor Nabobo-Baba said.

“Through this partnership, our students will undertake an intensive programme that combines academic learning with practical experience on commercial farms. Our hope is that these students will return not simply with new knowledge, but with new confidence, new ideas and new ways of thinking.”

Dean of the College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Associate Professor Dr Kaliova Ravuiwasa, thanked RNIT for partnering with FNU and for creating valuable opportunities for students.

“For the Fiji National University, this partnership represents our commitment to providing our students with opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. We believe that international exposure and practical learning are essential in preparing our graduates to become capable professionals, innovators and leaders who can contribute meaningfully to Fiji and the wider Pacific region,” Dr Ravuiwasa said.

The MOU signing was also complemented by the launch of a CAFF food garden, which will serve as a living laboratory and practical learning space for students.

The food garden initiative is designed to provide students with hands-on experience in food production and sustainable agriculture, while also supporting underprivileged students through access to fresh produce.

CAFF plans to expand the initiative to other FNU campuses across the country, providing students with practical training grounds where they can apply classroom knowledge and develop essential skills before graduating.

The partnership with RNIT and the establishment of practical learning spaces such as the food gardens reflect FNU’s commitment to producing work-ready graduates equipped with the knowledge, practical skills and international exposure needed to contribute to Fiji’s agricultural development and food security.