Thirteen students from across the Pacific region received their programme completion certificates from the Fiji National University’s (FNU) Office of Learning and Teaching (OLT) during the Year-End Completion Ceremony held at the Nasinu Campus on Wednesday, 26 November 2025.

These dedicated individuals, ranging from undergraduate to master’s level, travelled to Fiji to pursue their studies under the New Zealand Manaaki Scholarship. Their journeys exemplify remarkable perseverance and commitment to their academic aspirations.

FNU’s Pro Vice-Chancellor of Learning and Teaching, Professor Jimaima Lako, expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the graduates for choosing FNU as their educational home.

FNU Pro Vice-Chancellor Learning and Teaching, Professor Jimaima Lako delivers her speech at the completion ceremony.

“Your decision to study here reflects your commitment to personal growth, your ambition to contribute to your communities, and your trust in our institution’s ability to support you in achieving your goals,” Professor Lako said.

“While today’s ceremony is a moment of celebration, it also signifies the beginning of new opportunities. This completion ceremony serves as a meaningful recognition of your perseverance, resilience, and dedication throughout your studies at FNU.”

New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade First Secretary, Social Wellbeing, Jane Anderson delivers her remarks at the completion programme.

Jane Anderson, First Secretary at the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and a Social Wellbeing Officer, congratulated the graduates, saying, “We know that you are capable of achieving great things, and I want to thank you for the commitment you have made towards your own education, and to realising the goals and aspirations of your families and communities back home.”

Florence Tulua recieves her completion letter at the FNU Nasinu Campus.

Florence Tulua, who recently completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS) under the Manaaki Scholarship, shared her aspirations.

“Upon returning home, I plan to give back to my people by providing much-needed dental services and contributing to the strengthening of Tonga’s health system. I also hope to be part of outreach initiatives in rural communities where access to dental care is limited,” she said.

Before undertaking her studies, Tulua worked as a dental assistant at Vaiola Hospital in Tonga, driven by a desire to help those in pain.

“Being part of a team that relieves patients of their dental pain and seeing their gratitude makes me appreciate the small contribution I make. That experience instilled in me a strong work ethic and a passion for service, which inspired me to apply for the scholarship,” she added.

For more information visit the FNU website at http://www.fnu.ac.fj.

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