The Fiji National University (FNU) has made a historic achievement through its College of Humanities, Education and Law (CHEL), as five student-created short films were selected as finalists for screening at Damodar Cinemas, following their success at the Suva International Film Festival.
This marks the first time, FNU films being chosen for a major screening on the big screen, highlighting the University’s growing prominence in Fiji’s creative arts scene.
During the first semester, students from FNU department of Creative Arts, Film and Television programme under CHEL produced six short films to represent FNU at the film festival, organised by Film Fiji. Out of these, four films were chosen as finalists — a significant milestone for the university and its aspiring filmmakers.
The Creative Arts Film and Television (FTV) Programme coordinator and instructor at CHEL, Maneesha Wijekoon, who played a leading role in the project, expressed her pride.
Students from FNU’s School of Creative Arts with their equipment shooting their short films.
“Film Fiji and the Department of Creativ Arts have a strong relationship. When Film Fiji announced their film festival, I immediately discussed it with my students. We worked together through every stage — development, pre-production, production, and post-production — transforming ideas into completed films,” she said.
“Our goal was to get at least two films on the big screen, and we worked very hard to achieve this. I’m proud to say that my students are like family — they support each other and work as a team. Their efforts paid off, and their talents have been recognised. Film Fiji praised their skills in acting, camera work, and editing. This exposure has boosted their confidence and motivation, while also helping them develop crucial skills such as critical thinking and technical expertise in filmmaking.”
She also reflected on the themes explored in the short films, which address current issues faced by Fiji.
“One film raises awareness about teenage pregnancy. Another tells the story of Lutunasobasoba and the journey of his family arriving in Vuda, Lautoka. There is also a story blending reality with psychological breaks, a film about overcoming drug addiction with the support of a single mother, and a story about perspectives and cultural values shaping one’s reality,” Wijekoon explained.
Students from FNU’s School of Creative Arts hit the street of Suva to shoot their short films.
Head of Department for Creative Arts, Joseph Lavulo highlighted the significance of this achievement for students and the community.
“By exposing and encouraging out junior film makers in competition such as this film festival, we allow students to network, learn about the industry, and gain exposure. For the public, it offers a chance to watch diverse films and learn about different cultures and more importantly encourages younger film makers to pursue a career in this unique field. This is the first time one of our films has been shown on a large screen, and it is a major milestone that will inspire more students to pursue filmmaking,” he stated.
Lavulo also underlined the broader benefits of promoting creative arts in Fiji.
“Creative industries bring economic benefits through tourism and support the development of a vibrant local economy. They help preserve our cultural identity, empower artists, and provide valuable educational opportunities for youth. Our department is planning more projects, including documentaries and music videos, and our students are already involved in local productions such as ‘Suva City Season Two’ and internships on films like ‘Castaway’, ‘Survivor’, and ‘Love Island’,” he said.
This achievement underscores FNU’s commitment to nurturing creative talent and positioning Fiji as a hub for Pacific filmmaking excellence.
For more information visit the FNU website at http://www.fnu.ac.fj.
ENDS