Professor Biggs.

Fiji National University (FNU) will host Professor Simon Biggs, Vice-Chancellor and President of James Cook University (JCU), for a leadership presentation at the Vice-Chancellor Leadership Seminar.

Professor Biggs will share insights into JCU’s growth and development into one of Australia’s most respected universities with the topic “Navigating Transition, Leadership and Organisational Transformation”.

FNU Acting Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Learning and Teaching, Associate Professor Jimaima Lako, said FNU’s leadership team is honoured to host Professor Biggs and learn from JCU’s journey to become a leading university.

“FNU aims to provide the best learning experience for students, and we believe discussing leadership strategies with JCU will help strengthen our mission.”

“James Cook University (JCU) holds the distinction of being Queensland, Australia’s second-longest established university. For over six decades, JCU has been resolute in its commitment to fostering a brighter future for life in the tropics and beyond,” she said.

“This dedication is realised through impactful education and research initiatives that generate positive change on both local and global scales.

“Professor Simon Biggs assumed the role of JCU Vice-Chancellor and President in 2022. Professor Biggs’ forthcoming presentation will unveil his experiences in navigating JCU through substantial operational hurdles and strategic reconfigurations.”

“FNU aspires to become a regional leader in these critical areas aligned with Fiji’s National Development Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, positioning FNU to play a vital role in the country’s environmental future. FNU’s strategic plan for 2024-2026 signifies a clear vision for the university’s future. By focusing on sustainability, research excellence, and inclusivity, FNU positions itself as a leader in shaping Fiji’s future through high-quality education.”

Professor Biggs has served as JCU’s Vice-Chancellor since January 2016. Under his leadership, JCU has risen in global university rankings and built new campuses and study centers across Australia and Singapore. JCU is a public university in North Queensland, Australia, with over 22,000 students and 3,000 staff. JCU is a leader in research in the tropics and is ranked among the top 2% of universities worldwide.

The presentation will take place on 24 July 2024 at Nasinu Campus in Valelevu. Members of FNU’s leadership team will be in attendance, with an opportunity for questions and discussion following Professor Biggs’ presentation.