FNU Acting Vice-Chancellor Dr William May

Learning and teaching has changed dramatically in recent years and the COVID-19 pandemic further changed the delivery of education globally. Fiji was no exception but thanks to various support programmes and initiatives rolled out during this period, students were able to access lessons using technology and smart devices.

As we move towards a sense of normalcy and face-to-face classes resume for Semester 1, 2022 studies, the Fiji National University recognises that some students may need additional support to better navigate through their studies.

The University has implemented several key initiatives for learning enhancement this semester, one of which is blended learning as a means to cater for both remote and face-to-face studies. This allows in-person sessions that are accompanied by online resources and tasks.

Core to this is that online resources are not used as a substitute for face-to-face classes but are intended to enhance concepts discussed in a classroom setting.

Our Peer Assistant Learning (PAL) and noquBuddy programmes can be instrumental in bridging the knowledge gap between students who have had contrasting amounts of instruction during the pandemic.

Peer collaboration, group discussion, and cooperative tasks will benefit students tremendously, particularly those who may not have the confidence to raise questions or seek clarifications during face to face learning.

On a different scale, our one-on-one consultation sessions are designed to help students develop specific strategies to address academic concerns. There could be students who need individual guidance.

One-on-one consultations examine a student’s approach to learning, and current barriers to success, and work with student success specialists to develop effective learning strategies.

The English Language and Math Help Hubs are dedicated to helping students from all disciplines and abilities to become more effective writers and more competent in mathematics. These services are free to all enrolled students and the University offers tutorials and free courses to assist both struggling and high achieving students.

FNU’s First-Year Experience programme could help new students assimilate to university life. The programme was designed to help ease integration and enable access to other resources that could allow a smooth transition in FNU.

The newly opened Sports and Wellness Centre could mark a transition to a more holistic learning environment. Many individuals overtly discuss the importance of maintaining a balance between academic and social life. A part of this is sports.

Sports or physical activity allows students to take a break from academics and release pent-up energy. It helps students lead fuller lives as regular wellness activities have proven to provide not only physical benefits but also social and psychological benefits.

Ensuring access and inclusion for students with disabilities remains core to the University’s efforts in ensuring inclusive education for all. The Disability Centre at Nasinu Campus remains a testament to FNU’s commitment to enabling access to higher education for all regardless of disability.

The Centre is adjacent to major learning spaces, an administrative block and a food court allowing students easy access to these facilities.

FNU’s Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Pasifika courses allow those who have lost employment due to the pandemic to help hone skills that could help them find re-employment or start a business. TVET is also a potential solution for fresh high school graduates.

These courses ideally aim to create comprehensive skills development and training that meet the needs of the labour market and enhance economic growth.

The University is consistently restructuring programmes to ensure compatibility with the workforce because it is imperative that there is inclusive growth, one that ensures the participation of the vulnerable and enables economic opportunities for those in lower income groups.

We encourage all students to utilise available resources that will help them realise their full potential.

FNU is not solely focused on high intellectual performances, but rather identifies, and activates student strength and builds on their existing skills and knowledge.

The University’s motive is to build a resilient education system that can respond to the needs of all learners, particularly the vulnerable. This means that returning to the way things were pre-pandemic is no longer an option.

FNU, like all other institutions, has the responsibility of recovering losses and inequalities aggravated by the pandemic.

The intention is to drive education to a better position where all students can thrive, regardless of their circumstances.