The United States Embassy in Fiji proudly launched the new Science Lab Manual 2 and Science Lab Kit at Fiji National University (FNU), Natabua Campus, yesterday, 11 September 2025. This initiative marks a significant step forward in improving science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education across Fiji, especially in primary schools.
The launch was made possible through a generous grant from the US Embassy, in collaboration with FNU.
FNU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, expressed her gratitude for the support saying “Today, we celebrate a historic moment for STEM in Fiji and the Pacific. Thanks to the US Embassy’s support, we now have new resources that will help our students learn through hands-on experiments. I thank the US Government for this generous contribution. It shows their commitment to education and the future of Fiji.”
Fiji National University (FNU) Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba shares her remarks.
Professor Nabobo-Baba also emphasised the importance of investing in education.
“Our role is to serve as a catalyst for change, and this project vividly demonstrates our unwavering support for initiatives that seek to elevate educational standards at the grassroots level. The grant provided by the U.S. Embassy has enabled us to undertake two impactful projects — first, the development of the Science Lab Manual and Lab Kit, and second, a series of targeted workshops designed to empower both pre-service and in-service teachers to deliver engaging, inquiry-based science lesson,” she said.
FNU’s College of Humanities, Education and Law (CHEL) Dean, Professor Mesake Dakuidreketi, highlighted FNU’s dedication to transforming education through innovation.
“Our role is to serve as a catalyst for positive change. We aim to support teachers, motivate students, and uplift our society. Our partnership with the US Embassy demonstrates our shared vision for excellence in education and encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and inquiry among our learners,” Professor Dakuidreketi explained.
Since the project’s inception, FNU has been actively involved, providing resources and organisational support to ensure its success
“The grant will help improve STEM education in primary schools, a vital area where we see the need for urgent action. Developing scientific literacy and inquiry skills from a young age is essential for building a sustainable and innovative society,” Professor Dakuidreketi said.
US Ambassador to Fiji, Her Excellency Marie Damour delivers her remarks at the Science Lab Manual 2 and Science Lab Kit at Fiji National University (FNU), Natabua Campus.
The Chief Guest and the US Ambassador to Fiji, Her Excellency Marie Damour praised the initiative saying “It’s inspiring to see a shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of educators in Fiji. This launch restores an important aspect of science education — hands-on experiments in the classroom. Providing affordable, portable science kits allows teachers to teach the scientific method through real experiments. It’s a wonderful way to ignite curiosity and wonder among students.”
Ambassador Damour also highlighted the broader goals of the US in Fiji.
“This initiative is part of our effort to reverse the declining interest in STEM fields across Fiji and the Pacific. Our embassies support leadership programmes, technology exchanges, and cultural initiatives that foster curiosity and creativity among young people.”
“With these new tools, teachers can make science lessons more practical, relatable, and memorable. We are investing in the skills and tools that will help build a more prosperous, innovative, and secure future for Fiji.”
This launch marks a positive step in Fiji’s journey towards fostering a strong, innovative, and scientifically literate generation, equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
For more information visit the FNU website at http://www.fnu.ac.fj.
ENDS