Since the introduction of the latest public health measures due to COVID-19, the Fiji National University (FNU) has transitioned smoothly into online mode of learning, teaching and assessment, to ensure that students can continue with their studies with minimal disruption.

FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Toby Wilkinson said building on the experience gained in 2020, all departments at the university have been working in partnership to ensure that students remain the primary focus and are supported during these unprecedented times.

“Our College, academic and support staff work closely with the University’s Centre for Learning and Teaching Enhancement (CLTE) and the Centre for Flexible & E-Learning (CFEL) to ensure that students can access learning materials, support and activities remotely. These resources and activities are either self-paced or guided by Student Success Specialists.”

FNU has negotiated with Vodafone and Digicel for zero-data access for students to the University’s Moodle site and website, enabling students to access their learning materials and online learning and teaching activities for free.

“We have adopted maximum flexibility to support students with connectivity challenges. Online attendance is not compulsory and students can access the recorded sessions that teachers upload to Moodle. Students are also given the option to continue their studies if they have digital access or pause their studies until face-to-face classes can resume, without penalty,” VC Wilkinson said.

Flexibility has also been applied to deadlines for assessments, and the format of the assessments themselves have been revised. All students will be allowed to complete their assessments with flexibility throughout the semester, quarter and trimester.

“No student will be penalised for late submission and can submit their assessment throughout the year 2021, after informing their College Deans and Lecturers,” assured Prof Wilkinson.

“Students are provided with a variety of virtual learning support and activities by both CLTE and CFEL. These resources and activities are either self-paced or guided by Student Success Specialists. Popular initiatives and programmes include the English Language & Maths Help Hub, Learning to Learn Online, and Guide to Effective Learning. Webinars focusing on students’ experiences while studying at home and online community chat groups in Moodle (‘Talanoa Karo’) have kept students engaged beyond the classroom and foster a sense of university engagement and learning continuity,” he added.

For those students facing financial difficulties and have concerns regarding fee payment, FNU is continuing to offer a Flexible Fee Payment option.

“We want our students to continue their studies without worrying about fee payment deadlines. The flexible fee payment forms can be downloaded from our website and there are no extra charges or penalties incurred for the payment plan applications. We also offer an extension of fee payment dates. We know times are difficult for everyone and we are here to support our students achieve their academic aspirations,” highlighted the VC.

Furthermore, FNU provides free Counselling Service to all students to assist those who need someone to talk to and receive guidance. Students can contact the FNU Counsellors through the details provided on the website.

The University will continue to work closely with students, Colleges, and Lecturers to ensure that any difficulties encountered by students during the current period of fully online delivery are addressed swiftly and that students are offered regular, timely and proactive support throughout their studies.