Dr Deepti Darshani Devi with the FNU Chancellor and Council Chair, Mr Semesa Karavaki.

The Fiji National University’s College of Engineering, Science and Technical Vocational Education and Training (CETVET) marked a historic achievement today as Deepti Darshani Devi became the college’s first graduate to earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry.

Dr. Devi’s accomplishment not only reflects her personal dedication and academic excellence but also underscores CETVET’s growing capacity in advanced scientific research and innovation.

Her success stands as a powerful inspiration for current and future students, demonstrating the transformative opportunities available within CETVET and the wider FNU community.

Today’s graduation ceremony featured a total of 435 graduates from College of Engineering and Technical Vocational Education and Training, Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies and the National Training and Productivity Centre – 343 graduates from CETVET, 19 graduates from PCMS and 73 graduates from NTPC.

Front row, from left: The FNU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, the Chief Guest, Assistant Minister for the Ministry of Education, Honorable Iliesa Vanawalu, the FNU Chancellor and Council Chair, Mr Semesa Karavaki, the FNU Deputy Chair of Council, Dr Alisi Vudiniabola with members of the FNU Senior Leadersip Team at today’s graduation ceremony at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.

FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba commended Dr. Devi on her remarkable achievement.

“Now serving as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Pure Science at FNU’s Derrick Campus, Deepti’s achievement represents years of dedication, sacrifice, and resilience. Her success sends a powerful message: women not only belong in STEM — women excel in STEM,” she said.

“To every young girl watching, listening, or reading this: be bold. Be curious. Be fearless. The world of science, technology, engineering and mathematics is yours to claim.”

Professor Nabobo-Baba also encouraged all graduates to remain lifelong learners, emphasising that FNU will continue to provide flexible pathways for upskilling and professional growth.

Chief Guest Honourable Iliesa Vanawalu, Assistant Minister for Education, urged graduates to remain humble, compassionate, and focused on contributing to Fiji’s development.

“Fiji needs leaders, innovators, and problem solvers; people who will take the knowledge they have acquired and use it to drive positive change,” Honourable Vanawalu said.

“Success is not only measured by personal achievement but also by the contributions you make to society.”

He reminded graduates to uphold values of integrity, respect, and perseverance as they enter the next phase of their lives.

Tomorrow, FNU will host its last graduation ceremony for the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at the Vodafone Arena in Suva from 9.00am to 3.00pm.

Graduates from today’s FNU graduation ceremony held at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.