Reference is made to an article published online by the Fiji Sun on 26 March 2020 titled “Lautoka FNU Students in Need of Sanitizers, Food.”

The University would once again like to reiterate a statement sent to the media on Monday, 23 March 2020; excerpt “the University is well-stocked up on soap, disinfectants and other hygiene materials at these residential halls”.

The residential students have also been given the Campus Coordinator’s contact details should they face any emergencies or difficulties and to date, none of the students has approached the Campus Coordinator for any assistance.

Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor James Pounder issued an important message to students who are seen to be creating panic amongst other hostel students, “We are in the middle of a global crisis and I request students to please be responsible and follow the correct line of communication if they need anything so they can be promptly assisted. We are sympathetic towards any students who are facing hardships and the University has put in place measures to assist these students. These have been communicated to them so creating panic amongst residential students and the general public through unsubstantiated claims is irresponsible and is discouraged.”

“We have essential staff who are leaving their families to look after the residential students, and they do not need to be vilified on social media as has happened since the Fiji Sun story was published. I also hope our media agencies will practice responsible journalism at this time and verify news before it is published. This is not the time for sensational journalism.”

The Fiji National University Students’ Association (FNUSA) President, Ketan Lal said he has spoken with his representatives in Lautoka and they have advised him that the students appreciate the assistance provided by the good samaritans who have donated provisions; however, there’s no scarcity of food supplies.

“Due to restrictions in movement there was initially some fear of food running out but with continued assurance by Government and relevant authorities this has since subsided. The students have managed to replenish their supplies and food is also available at the FNU Café,” Lal commented.

Professor Pounder also advised students to manage their money wisely. TSLB students have already been given their meal allowance which covers the mid-semester break. Despite this, he stated, “we are very ready to assist any student who is facing financial hardships or any emergencies” and he advised students to contact the Hostel Warden or Campus Coordinator if they are facing hardships because FNU wants to ensure that they are well looked after.

TSLB’s Chief Executive Officer Bobby Maharaj said that all eligible students have been paid their allowances in full for Semester 1, 2020. This includes all TSLB sponsored students of FNU Natabua Campus. NTS students have been paid a maximum of $2400/Semester or $2000/Trimester for accommodation and meals and TELS students have been paid a maximum of $200 per month for food allowance. This is payment for 22 weeks and this includes the mid-semester break and also the scheduled four (4) weeks break between Semester 1, 2020. This is on top of the incidental allowances of a maximum of $500/semester. TSLB sponsored students are advised to use prudent financial management and budgeting techniques to manage their cash flow as they have already been paid as per their entitlements in full for the current academic term.

Professor Pounder said the University was working closely with FNUSA to ensure that all students are cared for during this challenging period.

“Our students have and will always remain a priority for the University and we have a duty to ensure that they are well looked after. And we are doing just that,” said Prof Pounder.

All FNU Campuses and Centres, including those from the Technical College of Fiji, currently remain closed until Friday 3 April. Staff have been advised to work from home.

Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor James Pounder.