Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth

Over the past 25 years the number of workers living in extreme poverty has declined dramatically, despite the lasting impact of the 2008 economic crisis and global recession. In developing countries, the middle class now makes up more than 34 percent of total employment – a number that has almost tripled between 1991 and 2015.

However, as the global economy continues to recover we are seeing slower growth, widening inequalities, and not enough jobs to keep up with a growing labour force. According to the International Labour Organization, more than 204 million people were unemployed in 2015.

The SDGs promote sustained economic growth, higher levels of productivity and technological innovation. Encouraging entrepreneurship and job creation are key to this, as are effective measures to eradicate forced labour, slavery and human trafficking. With these targets in mind, the goal is to achieve full and productive employment, and decent work, for all women and men by 2030.

Goal Related News

2024 PIHRS shows region’s commitment to advancing health research and policy

The 2024 Pacific Islands Health Research Symposium (PIHRS) has once again demonstrated the region’s commitment to advancing health research and ensuring that health policies are evidence-based. The symposium, hosted by the Fiji National University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS), successfully concluded yesterday, bringing together nearly 300 participants over two days at the...Read More

2024 Pacific Islands Health Research Symposium focuses on bridging knowledge and behaviour gaps in health

The 2024 Pacific Islands Research Symposium (PIHRS), hosted by the Fiji National University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS), began with a vibrant assembly of over 300 participants. This annual conference that is being held at the Sofitel Resort and Spa in Nadi serves as a key platform for Pacific health researchers to...Read More

Fiji National University Strengthens Ties with Melanesian Partners

The Fiji National University (FNU) is committed to strengthening partnerships with Melanesian universities after Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba attended the first Melanesian Universities Meeting held in Port Vila, Vanuatu last week. The meeting brought together leaders from universities in Melanesia, including the Vice Chancellor of the National University of Vanuatu (NUV), Jean Pierre Nirua as...Read More

FNU and Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration Join Hands to Tackle Drug and Human Trafficking

  The Fiji National University (FNU) signed a crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Home Affairs in an effort to tackle the nation’s growing drug and human trafficking issue. Speaking at the MoU signing the FNU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said that the agreement signifies a strategic alliance and a commitment to...Read More

FNU Graduates Over 400 Students in Taveuni

The Garden Island of Taveuni resounded with celebration as the Fiji National University (FNU) graduated 461 students from their Sustainable Livelihood Project (SLP) offered by the National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) last Friday. Pro-Vice-Chancellor TVET, Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata said that it was a celebration of empowerment, growth, and the pursuit of sustainable development. “The...Read More

DPM Gavoka Officiates at Nation’s First Ever Hospitality Conference

“Fiji National University’s (FNU) dedication to fostering innovation and progress within Fiji’s tourism and hospitality sectors is truly commendable. By convening this forum, they have created a valuable space for industry leaders, educators, and stakeholders to come together, share ideas, and collaboratively shape the future of tourism in Fiji.” These were the words of the...Read More

Aiming for the Skies: Ambitious FNU Student Eyes Fiji Airways

In Fiji’s Suncoast town of Rakiraki, amidst the hubbub of daily life, 24-year-old Matthewselah Ravulo Cornelius Waqawai found himself at a crossroads. Like many young individuals, he harboured dreams and aspirations but was unsure of the path to realise them. Little did he know that a chance encountered would be propelling him towards a future...Read More

FNU Provides Practical Approach to Contact Centre Operations Training

The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry in Fiji is growing rapidly and providing job opportunities for Fijians across the nation. To adapt to these emerging needs, the Fiji National University (FNU) envisions continuous enhancements to the programme, ensuring that graduates remain at the forefront of industry developments and are equipped to meet the demands of...Read More

Engineered for Excellence

In the world of aviation, where precision and safety reign supreme, a Nakelo native’s educational journey at the Fiji National University contributed immensely to his success as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. Samisoni Finau Baleinuku’s dreams of joining the aviation industry seemed close to reality when he stumbled upon an FNU prospectus in high school. “Ever...Read More

FNU signs Memorandum of Understanding with Cendrawasih University

Fiji National University (FNU) and Cenderawasih University formalised a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU establishes a framework for collaboration in relevant areas such as, student exchange, joint research, and a range of educational and cultural initiatives. The signing ceremony took place at the Grand Pacific Hotel (GPH) in Suva, Fiji....Read More

Fiji National University’s Executive MBA: Equipping Tomorrow’s Business Leaders

As the global business landscape evolves, Fiji National University (FNU) remains at the forefront of innovation, offering cutting-edge accredited leadership programmes to complement the changes in the business sector of our economy. Our College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies offers an accredited Executive Master’s in Business Administration (EMBA) for interested individuals who may want...Read More

FNU Gears Up to Celebrate Business Excellence in Fiji

The Fiji National University (FNU)’s National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) is gearing up to celebrate business excellence in Fiji in the upcoming 24th Fiji Business Excellence Awards (FBEA). Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, said that the university is excited to award the best businesses in Fiji. “This yearly event celebrates overall performance excellence...Read More

FNU Outreach in Ra highlights significant role of education

  The Fiji National University’s (FNU) Outreach Team was able to provide first-hand information on its programmes and services in the province of Ra last week. The team was part of the Ministry for Women, Children & Social Protection’s ‘International Day for the Eradication of Poverty’ (IDEP) event at Nailuva District School. This was coordinated...Read More

FNU commences pre-enrolment drive for Semester 1, 2024 studies

Prospective students interested in studying at the Fiji National University (FNU) next year can now submit their applications for admission. FNU Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba encouraged interested and continuing students to register their interest in studies. “A lot of us may be preparing for upcoming examinations and making holiday plans thereafter, however, I urge...Read More

Higher Education Institutions in Unique Position to Fight Climate Change – Baleisomi

 A Fiji National University (FNU) academic believes higher education institutions play a crucial role in supporting the fight against activities that lead to climate change and to create awareness of climate-related issues. FNU College of Humanities and Education (CHE) Lecturer at the School of Education, Sereima Baleisomi made these comments as part of the ‘Climate-U...Read More

Climate Change effects on health highlighted at FNU Symposium

Rising temperatures, more variability in weather, more extreme weather events, sea level rise, and increasing greenhouse gas and carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere due to climate change will continue to have a major impact on the health of the nation. This was highlighted at the Fiji National University’s (FNU), College of Medicine, Nursing, and...Read More

FNU provides TVET training for street dwellers, street kids and residents of squatter and informal settlements

The Fiji National University (FNU) is providing short course training for street dwellers, street kids and residents of squatter and informal settlements in the Central Division at its TVET Centre at Robertson Road from September 11-15, 2023. The initiative is part of the University’s commitment to ensuring that quality training and education is accessible to...Read More

FNU conducts outreach to Tailevu villages

The Fiji National University (FNU) ventured deep into Tailevu North to interact with the villages and provide awareness on the programmes and services offered by the University. The team served the people of the Namena, Dawasamu, Nakorotubu, and Sawakasa areas, comprising 22 villages. This outreach initiative ensured that information regarding tertiary studies at the University...Read More

Dental Officers’ Meeting an integral event – President of Fiji

The 6th Pacific Island Chief Dental Officers Meeting is a milestone event for the dental fraternity to discuss issues affecting oral health. This statement was shared by the President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency, Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere while officiating at the dental conference’s banquet dinner at the Pearl Resort in Pacific Harbour...Read More

FNU launches new partnership with PHAMA Plus

The Fiji National University (FNU) and the Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus (PHAMA Plus) Program today launched a collaborative research initiative for locally grown kava. As part of efforts to improve the consistency and reliability of Fiji’s kava production and grow exports of quality kava products, FNU’s College of Engineering, Science and Technology...Read More

Not All Heroes Wear Capes, Some Wear Lab Coats

Navneet Singh is now a successful medical laboratory scientist after graduating with a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS) from Fiji National University’s (FNU), College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences (CMNHS) in 2022. Originally, from Lautoka, Singh chose to pursue this career because it was his father’s dream. However, with time, he realised that...Read More

FNU maintains THE ranking, improves overall scores

  The Fiji National University (FNU) has maintained its ranking and improved its overall scores for the 2023 Times Higher Education (THE) ranking. FNU held its overall position at 801-1000 from 1,591 global institutions in 2023; compared to 801-1000 from 1,410 institutions in 2022. The Impact rankings measure how an institution’s research, stewardship, outreach and...Read More

Fiji’s new National Productivity Master Plan launched

The launch of Fiji’s first-ever National Productivity Master Plan 2021-2036 will set new pathways for Fiji’s productivity as well as assist in the reduction of the unemployment rate in the country, according to the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Honourable Parveen Kumar. The Master Plan was handed by the Asian Productivity Organisation (APO)...Read More

FNU hosts Small to Medium Enterprise Forum

Small to Medium Enterprise (SMEs) operators play a pivotal role in creating employment and contributes towards national economic growth. Speaking at a recent forum organised for the SME operators, the Fiji National University (FNU), Head of Department Economics and Customs, Dr Asaeli Tuibeqa said SME policy makers and support providers need a thorough understanding of...Read More

FNU Gifts authentic fans to graduates while supporting women community projects

To make graduations memorable and support grass roots entrepreneurship development, the Fiji National University (FNU) is gifting an authentic and traditional artefact, iri (fan) to all its graduates. FNU Alumni Relations Manager, Artila Devi said that the authentic local gift was selected to mark the important achievement of the graduating students as well as support...Read More

Fiji represented at 61st APO Governing Body Meeting

The Fiji National University’s (FNU) National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) as the National Productivity Organisation for Fiji led a delegation to the 61st Asian Productivity Organisation (APO) Governing Body Meeting in Manila, Philippines this week. Head of the delegation and NTPC Director Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata said the meeting reviewed the budget for the 2019-2020...Read More