Fiji National University (FNU) and Oceania Hospitals Pte Ltd (OHPL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishing a strategic partnership to enhance healthcare education in Fiji.
The collaboration will provide FNU students with exceptional opportunities to gain practical experience within OHPL’s healthcare environment.
The MOU centres on work attachment programmes that will allow FNU students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. OHPL’s commitment to providing an “Attachment Allowance” demonstrates their recognition of the programme’s value and their support for student development.
FNU’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said the partnership will strengthen the alignment between FNU’s medical study programmes and OHPL’s operations.
“Today marks a significant step forward in Fiji National University’s commitment to providing our students with an exceptional education and real-world preparation for successful careers in healthcare,” Professor Nabobo-Baba said.
“The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding with Oceania Hospitals Pte Ltd (OHPL) establishes a robust framework for collaboration, fostering invaluable opportunities for our students.
“This MOU represents a shared belief in the power of collaboration between academia and industry. By working together, we provide our students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences essential for success in the dynamic healthcare field, ultimately enhancing the well-being of our Fijian communities.”
Fiji National University (FNU) adopts a forward-thinking approach to align its educational offerings with the dynamic economic landscape of Fiji and the Pacific Islands.
This commitment manifests through rigorous curriculum reviews to ensure programme relevance to industry needs, the integration of work-based learning for practical skill development, and the pursuit of national and international accreditations that guarantee programme quality. These comprehensive initiatives culminate in a highly skilled graduate workforce poised to make significant contributions to Fiji’s economic growth.
FNU prioritises attracting and retaining exceptional educators, fostering a robust research culture that addresses national challenges.
OHPL Chief Executive Officer, Murgessan Pillay said, FNU and OHPL envision further integration, including OHPL’s potential involvement in student workshops, advisory roles, career guidance for graduates, and sponsorship of awards recognising exceptional academic achievement.
“This partnership with Fiji National University allows us to contribute directly to developing Fiji’s future healthcare professionals. By providing hands-on experience and mentorship, we can help shape a workforce that is both skilled and dedicated to providing exceptional patient care,” Pillay said.
“At OHPL, we recognise the importance of bridging the gap between academia and the healthcare industry. This collaboration with FNU allows us to share our expertise, foster a spirit of knowledge exchange, and ultimately strengthen the healthcare system within our communities.
“OHPL is committed to playing a proactive role in shaping the future of healthcare in Fiji. Our partnership with FNU is a strategic investment in nurturing the next generation of professionals. We envision a future where our graduates work alongside our experienced staff, ensuring the highest standard of care for all Fijians.”