The Fiji National University (FNU) Nasinu Campus brought together staff and students to celebrate World Teachers’ Day, Fiji Day and Pinktober, highlighting the importance of education, national identity, cultural diversity and community well-being.
Held under the theme “An Inclusive Fiji for a Better Tomorrow”, the celebrations reflected on the values that unite Fiji as a nation and strengthen the FNU community.
The Chief Guest, Acting Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service, Mr Auta Moceisuva, said FNU teachers carried an important national responsibility through their work in shaping future generations.
“Teaching is much more than a profession; it is a profound commitment to shaping human lives. A teacher does not simply transfer knowledge from a textbook to a student. A teacher inspires, mentors, challenges, encourages and frequently spots potential in a student long before they see it in themselves. You are equipping young minds with the knowledge, skills, values and confidence they need to contribute meaningfully to Fiji and the wider Pacific region,” said Mr Moceisuva.
Reflecting on Fiji Day, Mr Moceisuva said the occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s historic journey, recognise its progress and celebrate the rich cultural heritage that makes Fiji unique.
“As public servants and members of the FNU community, we have a vital role to play. Our institutions are not separate from society – we are society. The work we do every day directly shapes the Fiji that our children and grandchildren will inherit.
“To the students here with us today, I want to leave you with a simple, direct message. Never underestimate the immense opportunity that higher education grants you. Your time at FNU is not simply about passing exams or obtaining a qualification. It is about developing your character, your personal discipline, your ability to think critically, your capacity to collaborate and your willingness to serve your community. Your qualifications may open the door, but it is your character that will determine what you do once you walk through it,” he stated.
FNU Acting Head of Nasinu Campus, Ms Katarina Ruru, said bringing the three occasions together provided an opportunity to celebrate the shared values of education, unity, well-being, culture, service and community.
“As a university, we believe that education extends beyond the classroom. It is also about developing responsible citizens who understand their culture, appreciate diversity, support one another and contribute meaningfully to their communities and country. As we celebrate today, let us embrace our diversity, appreciate our shared identity and continue to build a Fiji where everyone has an opportunity to learn, contribute and thrive,” said Ms Ruru.
The celebrations also highlighted the importance of cancer awareness and collective action during Pinktober. Fiji Cancer Society Board Member, Mr Makrawa Wilson, encouraged the FNU community to turn awareness into meaningful action.
“Awareness into action means encouraging screenings, breaking the silence around cancer and supporting one another. It means turning knowledge into prevention, compassion into patient support, patient support into care and solidarity into fundraising that directly helps families,” said Mr Wilson.
Acting Dean of the College of Humanities, Education and Law (CHEL), Dr Joseph Veramu, said it was fitting that Fiji Day coincided with World Teachers’ Day, highlighting the close relationship between education and nation-building.
“Teachers shape the minds that build nations, and nations provide the vision that inspires teachers. This year, Fiji Day carries even greater weight. In the coming months, our nation will face two defining moments. They are the National Referendum and the General Elections,” Dr Veramu said.
He added that, as members of the Fiji National University community, staff and students had a responsibility to uphold the values that strengthen the nation.
“Our students and staff must embody the values of civic responsibility, integrity and dialogue. We must show that education is not only about knowledge, but about preparing citizens who can guide this nation forward with wisdom and courage,” he stated.
The western combined celebration, held at FNU’s Natabua Campus, was attended by students and academics from FNU’s Ba Campus, Naceva Campus and Bonunaqwele Nadi Campus.
The events served as a reminder of FNU’s role in fostering an inclusive university community that values education, celebrates Fiji’s cultural heritage and promotes the well-being of its people.
ENDS