College of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (CAFF) Dean, Dr Kaliova Ravuiwasa with student from the College at this traditional welcome ceremony

Tears of joy filled the room as the Fiji National University’s (FNU), College of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (CAFF) welcomed its first local College Dean in nearly 14 years.

Dr Kaliova Ravuiwasa, now the esteemed CAFF Dean and Associate Professor, was graciously honoured with a traditional welcome ceremony, Vakamamaca by the College’s staff and students at FNU’s Koronivia campus.

About 20 years ago, a young Ravuiwasa held his mother’s hand and walked inside the gates of the Koronivia campus. Last week, in the loving presence of his family, students and staff of the College, Dr Ravuiwasa accepted his appointment as the Dean and Associate Professor of CAFF. The welcome ceremony was held on the same date he lost his mother 24 years ago as a student at the same college.

Dr Ravuiwasa, a born leader as echoed by every speaker, encouraged students to not lose hope in trying to achieve dreams.

“As a local and iTaukei, I can understand the importance of this welcoming ceremony, and I am overwhelmed to have been bestowed with the love and honour behind it,” he said.

“There have been many milestones in my life, but this is the first time everyone who is important to me is part of it.

“You might lose a lot in trying to achieve your qualifications, your degrees, in trying to achieve your dreams, but do not lose hope, whatever problems you are going through, whatever baggage of life that you are carrying, hard work and hope are the two that will float you across!”

He further added that CAFF is the biggest college for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry in Fiji, and the Pacific region.

“I keep saying this and will reiterate this once again, there is no other institution or within the Ministry that can add up to the number of different specialists within the College,” he said.

“Majority of the specialists in the College are not only local doctors, and specialists, but they are also the only ones in their field so that is something that as a CAFF student or staff, you have to be proud of!”

Dr Ravuiwasa’s sister, Rigieta Ravuiwasa, who was present in the audience, as an invited guest, said her brother has always motivated her and she is proud of his achievements today.

Rigieta Ravuiwasa

“Our brother joined CAFF as a student some 20 years ago. I only wish my mother was here to witness what my dear brother has achieved today!” she expressed.

He further added that CAFF is the biggest college for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry in Fiji and in the Pacific region.

First-year Diploma in Agricultural Science student, Simran Darshika Jeet

Simran Darshika Jeet, a first-year Diploma in Agricultural Science student, was deeply moved by the Dean’s journey, seeing it as a powerful testament to the rewards of hard work.

“Being part of his welcome ceremony today was truly amazing. Hearing his story was incredibly emotional and inspiring,” Jeet expressed.

Originally from Rakiraki, Jeet found strength in the Dean’s narrative, believing it instilled a sense of empowerment for students like her to persevere through challenges.

“His acceptance speech resonated with me on a personal level. Growing up in a single-parent family, I have faced incredibly tough times, where my mother went without food so that my siblings and I could eat.

“His speech showed me that we all have the potential to rise above our circumstances and achieve greatness like him.”

College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Dean and Associate Professor, Dr Kaliova Ravuiwasa receiving the “kamunaga” from his staff and students