The Fiji National University (FNU) officially launched its Academic Integrity Policy at the Nasinu Campus on Friday, 17 April.

The policy establishes a comprehensive framework outlining the principles, expectations and responsibilities required to uphold and promote academic integrity across all areas of learning, teaching and research at the University. It is grounded in the core values of honesty, trust, fairness, respect and responsibility, which underpin the academic community at FNU.

The policy further reinforces the University’s commitment to maintaining high academic and ethical standards by adopting a proactive, educative and preventative approach to academic integrity.

It clearly defines the roles and responsibilities of students, academic staff and the institution, while also providing transparent, consistent and fair processes for addressing instances of academic misconduct.

Speaking at the launch, Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba highlighted the fundamental importance of integrity in higher education.

“Academic integrity is the foundation upon which the credibility and reputation of any university rests,” she said.

“Through the introduction of this policy, FNU sends a clear and unequivocal message that we are committed to upholding honesty, accountability, excellence and the highest ethical standards.”

Professor Nabobo-Baba further emphasised that the policy must not be viewed as a procedural requirement but rather embraced as a shared responsibility by the entire University community.

“It must be lived and demonstrated daily in our classrooms, in our research, and in our professional conduct,” she added.

The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged the significant contributions of the Office of Learning and Teaching, the Academic Integrity Taskforce led by Pro-Vice-Chancellor Learning and Teaching Professor Jimaima Lako, and all stakeholders involved in the development of the policy.