Some of the graduates after receiving their certificates

The Fiji National University (FNU), through its National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC), celebrated a milestone achievement today as 235 graduates from the Ra Province proudly received their certificates under the Sustainable Livelihood Project (SLP), a Community-Based Non-Formal Education and Training initiative.

The vibrant graduation ceremony, held at Vunitogoloa Community Hall, brought together community leaders, families, trainers, and special guests to honour the graduates’ hard work, determination, and commitment to furthering their education with FNU.

The programme saw 122 men and 113 women complete 13 diverse short courses, ranging from Small Engine Repair, Baking and Patisserie, and Business Management, to Fibreglass Boat Repair, Floristry, and Joinery & Cabinet Making. The youngest graduate was just 15 years old, while the oldest was an inspiring 76-year-old, proving that learning truly has no age limit.

Speaking at the event, FNU’s Pro Vice-Chancellor TVET, Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata, praised the graduates for their resilience and ambition.

FNU’s Pro Vice Chancellor TVET Pasifika & NTPC, Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata

“You have not just gained skills; you have ignited a flame of possibility in your lives. Whether you use these skills to start a small business, improve your livelihood, or support your families, what you have learned here has the power to ripple through your community for years to come.”

The project was a joint effort between the Rakiraki Indo-Fijian Community and Vunitogoloa Village, a partnership that Dr Tagicakiverata said demonstrated the power of unity in a multicultural society.

Chief Guest Eapi Nabou, Programme Coordinator at the Fiji Water Foundation, described the graduation as more than a ceremony.

“This is not just a personal milestone; it is a step towards building stronger communities and a stronger Fiji. Every certificate earned here today represents greater opportunities for income, independence, and contribution to our nation’s economic growth,” said Nabou.

He also thanked FNU for bringing its services to rural and remote communities.

“FNU is not only in Suva, it’s not only in Nadi, but it has come down to grassroots level to our own communities to be able to provide this education.”

Mr Nabou also left graduates with two personal lessons for success.

Eapi Nabou, Programme Coordinator Fiji Water Foundation

“Follow your passion and work to make an impact. Skills are powerful, but passion turns skills into purpose. And never underestimate yourself — you can achieve greatness. God has a tendency to use a nobody in front of everybody without consulting anybody.”

This graduation solidifies FNU’s commitment to making education accessible beyond traditional classrooms, ensuring that skills training reaches even the most remote communities.

Dr Tagicakiverata reminded graduates that the ceremony marked not an end but a beginning, encouraging them to continue their educational journey with FNU.

“Stand proud as ambassadors of this programme, knowing you are part of a bigger movement, a movement to craft futures together for your families, your communities, and our nation.”

The Sustainable Livelihood Project was designed to equip participants with practical, income-generating skills, fostering self-reliance and community growth to bridge the gap between education and economic opportunity for Fijians across the country especially those from rural, remote and maritime areas.