The Fiji National University (FNU) is set to advance its commitment to ethical and rigorous academic research by hosting a dedicated Human Research Ethics Training for staff and students.

The training, conducted via Zoom, will bring together members of the FNU Ethics Committee alongside researchers and scholars from across the institution.

The Centre for Graduate Studies hosts Comprehensive Online Training to uphold Ethical Research Standards in collaboration with the Research Office and FNU’s Human Ethics Committee.

Acting Dean, CGS Associate Professor Dr Mumtaz Alam highlighted that Human Ethics is one of the important training courses for our graduate students.

The programme is designed to equip participants with a thorough understanding of ethical responsibilities in research.

Opening proceedings, Grant and ethics officer Ms Reena Singh introduced the Ethics Committee members and administration and the Chair of the Human Ethics Committee, Dr Zakia A. Chand, outlined the Ethics Committee’s pivotal role in guiding and overseeing research conducted under the FNU banner.

The training covered a broad range of topics critical to responsible research practice.

Associate Professor Dr Shipra Shah guided participants in identifying key considerations for ethical reviews and in aligning research objectives with ethical design and robust methodologies.

She said this was important, especially in socially embedded and culturally sensitive contexts when the research involves marginalised communities.

Dr Ravita Prasad addressed how researchers can access guidance, advice and support, with further sessions dedicated to ethical

Ms Vikash also addresses the complexities of external compliance, particularly for research conducted at external sites such as schools, hospitals, and communities, where formal approvals from relevant institutions are required prior to commencing fieldwork.

The session was concluded with an open Question & Answer segment moderated by a panel of Ethics Committee members — Dr Zakia A. Chand, Dr Mumtaz Alam, Dr Udya Shukla, Dr Ravita Prasad, Dr Shipra Shah, Ms Adarshani Vikash, and Dr Suesh Pandey, who provided participants with the opportunity to seek clarification and engage directly with FNU’s research ethics experts.

“This training reflects FNU’s unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of integrity in research. By equipping our staff and students with the tools to navigate ethical responsibilities, we are ensuring that the knowledge we produce meets the highest global standards and serves the best interests of our communities.” Dr Alam said.

FNU remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate a research environment grounded in transparency, accountability, and respect for all participants. Human Research Ethics Training is a key component of this mission, ensuring that every researcher at FNU has the knowledge and support to conduct their work with the utmost integrity.