FNU’s Pro-Vice Chancellor Learning & Teaching, Dr Jimaima Lako

The Fiji National University (FNU) is proud to announce its receipt of an EU-funded grant under the RERIPA Call 4 Project, officially signed on November 28, 2023.

This groundbreaking 15-month initiative is dedicated to enhancing Pacific education and advancing research and innovation, particularly in addressing climate change impacts.

As FNU’s first-ever EU-research-funded project, it marks a significant milestone that promises to transform and innovate climate-resilient educational frameworks across the Pacific region.

The EU-RERIPA Call 4 Project, led by Acting Pro Vice Chancellor of Learning and Teaching; Dr Jimaima Lako, is a collaborative endeavour involving FNU and a consortium of regional partners, including the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG), Solomon Islands National University (SINU), and key NGOs such as Conservation for Corals (C4C) and Environmental Law Oceania Conservation (ELOC).

“The project aims to tackle climate change challenges through innovative educational and training initiatives, utilising Living Labs projects that are currently running in the region, to strengthen research and innovation processes,” said Dr Jimaima Lako.

“These efforts will create a robust Pacific-based framework for research and innovation, specifically focusing on the impacts of climate change. The project seeks to develop, promote, disseminate, and execute innovative climate-resilient educational, communication, and training programmes, targeting a wide range of stakeholders, including the scientific community, academic institutions, policymakers, private sector entities, civil society organisations, and local communities.”

“The comprehensive curriculum and learning resources will encompass various educational levels, from ECE and primary school storybooks to short courses, and undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, catering to diverse groups such as tertiary institutions, community organisations, youth and church groups, women’s groups, entrepreneurs, and industry sectors like tourism and fisheries,” revealed Dr Lako.

This integrated approach ensures that educational materials and training are accessible, engaging, and impactful. The EU-RERIPA Call 4 Project aims to elevate FNU’s academic offerings and enhance its reputation regionally and internationally.

By incorporating innovative educational materials and curricula, the project will not only enrich FNU’s climate change curriculum but also position the university as a leader in climate change education and sustainable development.

“Securing this EU-funded project has been a challenging journey, but the potential impact on Pacific education and climate change innovation makes it immensely rewarding. We are eager to embark on this transformative journey with our regional partners,” expressed Dr Jimaima Lako.

For more information about the RERIPA Call 4 Project, please contact the Project Manager, Ms Timaima Racule, at 3394000 ext 2842 or 7431978 and timaima.racule@fnu.ac.fj