The Fiji National University (FNU) has formally recognised its Professoriate as a sub-committee of the University Senate, marking a significant milestone in strengthening academic governance and standards across the institution.

The Professoriate is comprised of full Professors and Principal Instructors, the latter being the equivalent of Professors within the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) stream. Established three years ago, the Professoriate has played an important advisory role in shaping academic standards, particularly in relation to promotion criteria and broader scholarly matters.

Following deliberations, the full Senate resolved yesterday to formally acknowledge the Professoriate as one of its standing sub-committees. This recognition reinforces the University’s commitment to academic excellence, transparency, and robust decision-making processes.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, introduced the Professoriate to the Senate yesterday, noting that incorporating the body to the Senate was both timely and necessary.

“The formal recognition of the Professoriate by the Senate affirms the central role of senior academics in safeguarding academic standards and institutional integrity,” Professor Nabobo-Baba said.

She explained that the Professoriate has already made valuable contributions to the University’s academic development.

“Over the past three years, the Professoriate has provided critical guidance on promotion standards and other academic issues. Their collective experience and leadership have strengthened our internal processes and ensured consistency across disciplines,” she said.

The Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research & Innovation, Professor Paul Iji, who is developing the full terms of reference for the Professoriate also highlighted the importance of aligning the Professoriate’s work with existing institutional frameworks.

“With the Human Resources Division already having established terms of reference for promotion assessments, the Professoriate will complement these processes by providing scholarly oversight and discipline-specific expertise,” he said.

The University believes that formalising the Professoriate within the Senate structure will further enhance academic leadership and support FNU’s strategic goals in teaching, research, and innovation.

ENDS