(from left to right) FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, outgoing Director Shalendra Gounden, and the newly appointed Director of the Division of Estates and Facilities, Apisai Saunikalou Tadulala Tuiloma.

The Fiji National University (FNU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Apisai Saunikalou Tadulala Tuiloma as the new Director of the Division of Estates and Facilities, effective yesterday, 28 October 2025. The appointment was officially announced today, Wednesday 29 October 2025, following the departure of the previous Director, Mr Shalendra Gounden, who has served in the role for the past eight years.

Tuiloma expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve in this pivotal role and shared insights into his educational journey with FNU.

“My journey with what was then Fiji Institute of Technology (FIT) began in 2002, when I pursued a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering. Reflecting on my path with FNU, I can say that it has not only provided me with a strong technical foundation but also instilled core values that have supported my growth over the years,” he stated.

Newly appointed Director of the Division of Estates and Facilities, Apisai Saunikalou Tadulala Tuiloma, delivers his remarks following his appointment.

He also acknowledged the significant contributions of the outgoing Director.

“I would like to commend Mr Gounden for his excellent leadership over the years. The robust systems and structures that the university benefits from today are a testament to his dedication and hard work in laying a solid foundation. My focus will be on building upon that foundation to ensure that our estate and facilities genuinely reflect FNU’s vision as a leading dual-sector university in the region,” Mr Tuiloma added.

Welcoming Mr Tuiloma into the University vuvale, FNU Pro Vice-Chancellor Learning and Teaching, Professor Jimaima Lako, emphasised the importance of well-maintained and thoughtfully managed facilities in achieving academic excellence.

“The Division of Estates and Facilities plays a crucial role in ensuring that our physical assets are safe, sustainable, and fit for purpose. From maintaining classrooms, laboratories, and administrative buildings to managing our grounds, infrastructure, and technological systems—every element is integral to fostering an environment where excellence can flourish,” she said.

Professor Lako further highlighted Mr Tuiloma’s extensive experience, noting that his diverse background in civil engineering, project management, and infrastructure development positions him well to oversee the development and maintenance of the university’s campus infrastructure.

“His appointment underscores our commitment to enhancing our facilities, ensuring they remain innovative, sustainable, and aligned with the strategic goals of FNU. It also reflects our dedication to providing an environment that supports high-quality education and a vibrant academic community,” she added.

Tuiloma’s professional background includes key roles at the University of the South Pacific as Manager of Design & Projects and General Manager of Maintenance, the Fiji Roads Authority as Senior Engineer, and the Fiji Sugar Corporation as Corporate Civil Engineer. He holds a Master of Business Administration, Postgraduate Diploma, and Certificate in Business Administration from the University of the South Pacific, in addition to a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering from FNU — being part of the university’s first graduating cohort in that programme.

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

ENDS