FNU’s Acting Executive Director – Foundation Alumni and Impact Assessment, Karen Lobendahn and the FNU Students’ Association Natabua President, Ioane. S. Junior unveil the plaque at the Official Launch of the FNU Natabua Foundation Closet, Pantry and Coffee Forward at Natabua Campus yesterday.

The Fiji National University (FNU) has officially opened the Natabua Campus branch of the FNU Foundation’s Veilomani Closet, Pantry, and Coffee Forward initiative, marked by a plaque unveiling ceremony held yesterday in Lautoka.

This significant occasion was officiated by Karen Lobendahn, FNU’s Acting Executive Director – Foundation, Alumni, and Impact Assessment.

The FNU Foundation serves as the charitable arm of the University, dedicated to supporting underserved students who are most in need. Its key initiatives include the Veilomani Closet, Veilomani Food Pantry, Coffee Forward, and various scholarships and student support programmes.

Students at the Unveiling of the Plaque and Launching of the FNU Natabua Foundation Closet, Pantry and Coffee Forward at Natabua Campus yesterday.

Through this latest launch, FNU students based in the Lautoka area will now have access to essential clothing, food supplies, and even a decent, nourishing breakfast.

In her opening address, Lobendahn highlighted that the FNU Foundation was created to help close the gap, and to give every student a fair chance, no matter their background.

“This launch is about showing care and looking out for one another. It’s about supporting our young people so they can reach their dreams and, in doing so, help build a better future for Fiji, the Pacific, and beyond,” said Lobendahn.

“This project shows what we can achieve when we work together, with open hearts and a shared purpose. It speaks of the values that we, at FNU, stand for, compassion, support, and the idea that no one should be left behind.

“We know that some students struggle financially, and it breaks our hearts to see anyone give up on their education because they can’t afford the basics. That’s where the Foundation steps in. Today’s event is for those students, the ones who need just a bit more support to stay on track.”

She said to date, over 37 students of Natabua Campus have sought assistance from the FNU Foundation.

Lobendahn also paid tribute to all donors and staff who have opened their hearts to give and help students in need.

Delivering her welcome address, FNU’s Associate Dean Learning and Teaching for the College of Humanities, Education and Law, Dr Lavinia Tiko said the FNU Foundation was also proud to be supporting various United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“By investing in our students, we contribute to SDG 4 – Quality Education, ensuring that no one is left behind,” added Dr Tiko.

“Through scholarships and financial assistance, the Veilomani Food Pantry and Veilomani Closet and the Coffee Forward Initiative, we aim to address SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities, giving every student, regardless of their background, a fair chance to excel. By empowering future leaders, researchers, and entrepreneurs, we advance SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, building a workforce that is skilled, innovative, and resilient.”

FNU’s Acting Executive Director – Foundation Alumni and Impact Assessment, Karen Lobendahn, alongside the Head of Natabua Campus, Perry Gabriel and the FNU’s Associate Dean Learning and Teaching for the College of Humanities, Education and Law, Dr Lavinia Tiko touring the FNU Foundation space at Natabua Campus yesterday.

More information about the FNU Foundation can be found on www.fnu.ac.fj/foundation