It was a proud and joyful day at the Vodafone Arena in Suva as 579 students from the Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Humanities, Education and Law (CHEL) graduated from a diverse range of disciplines. Among them was Kasanita Nayasi, the first iTaukei, who achieved her PhD, alongside four other regional students marking a significant milestone in their academic journey.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chief Guest Paula Manumanunitoga, General Secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association, encouraged the graduates to move forward with confidence and strong values.

“The world is filled with opportunities waiting for you to seize them. As you prepare to enter the workforce, carry a strong sense of ethics, integrity, honesty, and professionalism, as these are the pillars of sustainable success in any profession. Your decisions will not only reflect on you but also on your community and country. Let your actions be guided by a moral compass in every role you undertake,” said Mr Manumanunitoga.

He also spoke about the need to strengthen technical and vocational education and training from an early stage.

“These pathways are essential not just for higher education institutions but should ideally begin as early as primary school. Integrating vocational training into the primary curriculum will not only prepare students for diverse career paths but also promote a culture of respect for trades and technical occupations,” he added.

One of the proud graduates, Elenoa Lutua, made history in her family by being the first to earn a university degree. She graduated with a Bachelor of Education, majoring in Industrial Arts. Originally from Nasealevu in Macuata, with maternal ties to Ono-i-Lau, Lutua shared how meaningful this achievement was for her family.

“It has always been my parents’ dream for me to become a teacher, and I am proud to fulfil that dream,” she said with a big smile.

Another standout graduate was Sakiusa Sakiti, who earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. With 21 years of experience in teaching, he currently leads the Industrial Arts Department at Assemblies of God High School in Kinoya. A father of six, Sakiusa’s story is one of hard work and passion.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” he said, quoting a message close to his heart. His journey is a strong reminder of the difference education can make—not just for individuals, but for families and communities too.

FNU’s graduation will continue for the next two days – with 574 students set to graduate tomorrow from the College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies, and the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, and an additional 541 students will graduate from the College of Engineering & Technical Vocational Education & Training (CETVET), National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC), and Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies (PCMS), on Thursday.

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

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