FNU signs MoU with Republic of Nauru’s Department of Multicultural Affairs

Press Release Posted On: June 5, 2023

FNU Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba with Secretary for the Department of Multicultural Affairs of the Republic of Nauru, Daniel Eoe, at the Memorandum of Understanding signing.

The Fiji National University (FNU) and the Republic of Nauru’s Department of Multicultural Affairs recently formalised a partnership to promote, strengthen, and enhance cooperation in vocational education, higher education, and faculty development.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at the Nasinu Campus last week and will see the two organisations promote mutual understanding, leading to the strengthening of both institutions through identified development activities.

FNU’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, said the partnership also emphasized the University’s commitment to expanding academic collaboration with other institutions in the region.

“We aim to support growth and generate chances for information sharing and skills advancement by working closely together. This collaboration will allow us to use our individual talents and resources to benefit our institutions and the Pacific area as a whole,” Professor Nabobo-Baba said.

“One of the most significant components of this relationship is the delivery of human capacity building and the creation of adaptable e-learning programs.  We can secure the delivery of high-quality educational opportunities to people in Nauru and beyond by cooperating on issues of shared interest.”

“FNU has generously offered to provide training resources that may be limited in Nauru. The University will also provide all assessments upon completion of the short courses, ensuring the standardisation and quality of the learning outcomes.”

Trainers from FNU’s National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) will travel to Nauru to conduct the first set of short course trainings next month, allowing local students to access rich educational content and learn new skills.

The Secretary for the Department of Multicultural Affairs of the Republic of Nauru, Mr Daniel Eoe, said the partnership would allow the people of Nauru access to higher learning to develop their knowledge, skills, and qualifications.

“My department is responsible for managing regional processing operations in Nauru and searching for alternative pathways; hence we have engaged now with the Fiji National University to sign this historic agreement. It is the first of this size and nature in the history of Nauru, so it is a historical occasion as well,” Eoe said.

“I am very pleased to represent the Republic of Nauru and convey my government’s pleasure in having this cooperation between FNU and the government of Nauru in providing tangible seals and allegiance to the Nauruan people and thereby strengthening the region as well.”

FNU Pro-Vice-Chancellor TVET, Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata, added that the University was aware of the pivotal role it plays in Fiji and the region.

“We are immensely happy to have signed this agreement with the Nauru government and the partnership shows the commitment of both countries to helping individuals grow in their field of work, especially in the TVET trade areas,” Dr Tagicakiverata said.

This MOU, which is for 3 years, will see FNU deliver short courses as well as full qualification and award courses in the fields of construction, Training of Trainers, welding, automotive, trade testing, hairdressing, culinary arts, nursing courses, boat masters, Teacher training, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries, licensed training and other tailor-made trainings. At the successful completion of the training, each student will be awarded with the relevant certification and qualification.