Principal of Nakorotubu Secondary School, Sakiusa Taginisedrau alongside FNU’s Outreach Specialist, Varanisese Vakula speaking with a student during the Student Liaison Outreach Programme.

The Fiji National University (FNU) has concluded the first phase of its annual Student Liaison Outreach Programme, visiting secondary schools across the Western Division, as well as schools in Ovalau and Taveuni.

Having visited 48 secondary schools throughout the Western Division, FNU is grateful for the opportunity to engage with students in Sigatoka, Nadi, Lautoka, Ba, Tavua and Rakiraki.

FNU also extends its appreciation to the students and teachers of secondary schools in Ovalau and Taveuni for providing a valuable platform to share information on the diverse career pathways available to future students.

Principal of Nakorotubu Secondary School, Sakiusa Taginisedrau, whose school is nestled in the interior of Ra, expressed his appreciation to FNU for travelling to the remote parts of the province to engage with students and provide guidance on the various Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and higher education pathways available at the University.

FNU’s Acting Manager Public Relations and Communications, Christal Kapoor speaks with students of Lautoka Muslim College during the Student Liaison Outreach Programme.

Taginisedrau, who hails from Nabukadra Village in Nakorotubu, Ra, said FNU offered practical opportunities that aligned well with the aspirations and circumstances of students in rural communities.

“FNU is an ideal choice for our students because we are located in a rural and coastal area of Ra, and the programmes offered by FNU suit our students very well. We can clearly see that the interest is there,” he said.

“Our students have greatly benefited from the knowledge shared. This visit is more impactful than other campaigns because students are able to sit, listen attentively and gain a detailed understanding of the opportunities available to them.”

Meanwhile, in the Mamanuca Group of Islands, Malolo Island is home to Ratu Lalabalavu Secondary School.

Year 12 student and Head Boy, Jonetani Radomole, said the visit by the FNU team reassured students that their dreams and aspirations were just as important as those of students attending schools in urban areas.

He said living in a remote location no longer made students feel left behind, as the outreach programme brought valuable information and opportunities directly to their doorstep.

“This visit has helped many of us. Before, some students were unsure about what to do after high school. Now, we have a better understanding of the programmes available and the goals we want to achieve,” he said.

“I want to go to university after I finish high school and return to help my community. I hope that through education, I can make a positive difference for my people in the future.”

Meanwhile, the outreach programme continues this week in the Central Division, where various FNU teams are engaging with students and providing information on the University’s programmes, scholarships, student support services and career opportunities.