The High Commissioner of India to Fiji, His Excellency Suneet Mehta, FNU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba and FNU’s Diwali Committee Chairperson, Ms Vidhya Singh, at the Deepawali celebration.

The Fiji National University (FNU) marked a historic milestone by hosting its first-ever Deepawali celebration at its Nasinu Campus on Friday, 17 October 2025. Under the theme “Celebrating Cultures, Creating Memories, and Crafting Futures,” the event underscored FNU’s dedication to fostering cultural diversity, mutual respect, and inclusive educational growth.

Deepawali, recognised as the Festival of Lights, celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, symbolising hope, renewal, and enlightenment.

The celebration at FNU brought together students and staff from diverse backgrounds, uniting in a shared appreciation of this vibrant tradition.

FNU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, highlighted the significance of the occasion, emphasising how the festival embodies universal values.

Staff and students of FNU participating in the Deepawali celebration at Nasinu Campus.

“Deepawali, the Festival of Lights, is a perfect embodiment of this spirit — a festival that signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It is a time for reflection, renewal, and hope, values that resonate deeply within our academic community and beyond,” she stated.

The event was graced by His Excellency Suneet Mehta, the High Commissioner of India to Fiji, who praised FNU’s initiative in celebrating Diwali.

“This celebration captures the essence of ‘Celebrating Cultures, Creating Memories, and Crafting Futures’. It reflects our collective strength rooted in diversity, compassion, and shared aspirations for a brighter future. As we observe Deepawali across communities and faiths, we recognise it as a legacy of unity and mutual respect,” he remarked.

FNU Diwali Committee Chairperson, Vidhya Singh conveyed the festival’s broader message.

FNU students perform dance to mark the occasion of Deepawali.

“Deepawali is a reminder that education, like the festival’s light, illuminates the path forward. At FNU, we are committed to equipping our students with knowledge, skills, and values that enable them to shape their futures and contribute positively to Fiji’s progress. Let the spirit of Deepawali inspire us to bring light, hope, and positive change to our communities and beyond,” she said.

May the festival inspire academic community to continue embracing diversity, fostering understanding, and illuminating the path towards a brighter future for all.

For further information, please visit the FNU website at http://www.fnu.ac.fj.

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