FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Lyn Karstadt (with garland) and members of FNU’s Senior Leadership Team.

The Fiji National University officially welcomed the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lyn Karstadt in a traditional ceremony at the FNU Sports and Wellness Centre at Nasinu Campus this morning.

FNU’s Council members, Senior Leadership Team, Student Association (FNUSA) executives and staff and students were part of the event and witnessed the Qaloqalovi, Sevusevu and Yaqona Vakaturaga to signify the University’s respect and acceptance of the new Vice-Chancellor.

The ceremony was also live-streamed to FNU’s various campuses and centres to ensure the inclusion and participation of all staff and students.

FNU Chancellor and Chair of Council, Ms Tessa Price delivered the opening address at the milestone occasion for the University.

“As you can imagine, I am also more than proud of the fact that Professor Karstadt makes history as the first female to be appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of Fiji’s national University,” Ms Price said.

“Today’s historic event is not only significant, but one which is in line with the Fijian Government’s vision of promoting gender equality, especially at top-level management in organisations and I’m proud that this also  reflects on our commitment to being an equal and inclusive institution of learning.”

“Professor Karstadt was selected following an extensive international recruitment process and has more than 20 years of experience in executive and leadership roles in higher education in Australia and the United Kingdom.”

“Her knowledge and vast experience aligns well with FNU’s priorities during its next decade of providing accessible learning, teaching and research opportunities to all Fijians and our regional and international students.”

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lyn Karstadt acknowledged the University for according her a traditional welcome ceremony and said she was honoured to be part of the institution and build on its legacy of providing accessible education to all Fijians.

“I look forward to the challenge of FNU becoming the leading dual-sector university in the Pacific, by serving the people, economy and society of Fiji and the wider Pacific region,” Professor Karstadt said.

“This can be achieved by providing quality and accessible education and training for employability, producing relevant and real-world research, becoming champions of sustainability, and providing our students with the best possible learning experience.”

“As I meet more of the University leadership team, faculty members, professional services staff, and students over the coming weeks, I am eager to gain more insight and emphasise the importance of the diverse yet equally important roles we all play in creating an institution that we are all proud of.”

FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Lyn Karstadt receives a tabua during her traditional welcome ceremony at FNU’s Nasinu Campus this morning.