The Fiji National University (FNU) proudly welcomed 17 new regional scholars through the prestigious Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme during an engaging Information Session held at its Pasifika campus in Suva on Friday, 28 March 2025. The session served as a vital platform for the scholars as they readied themselves for the management transition of the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme to FNU, effective from Tuesday, 1 April 2025.
The Government of New Zealand and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) has enabled 74 scholars from six Pacific Island nations namely Kiribati, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu to pursue their dreams at FNU.
In her opening remarks, Sereima Baleisomi, Acting Director of Academic Learning and Teaching at FNU, said “To our 57 ongoing scholars, your resilience and achievements inspire us. Keep up the good work. To our 17 new scholars, welcome to the FNU family — we are excited to walk this journey with you,” Baleisomi said.
Baleisomi said as FNU embarks on this partnership, both institutions reaffirm their commitment to empowering future leaders and advancing sustainable development across the Pacific. “We do not take this responsibility lightly and pledge to uphold the values of excellence and care embedded in the Manaaki Scholarships,” Baleisomi stated, reflecting on the significance of the term ‘Manaaki’ — which captures the essence of looking after one another.
Sereima Baleisomi, Acting Director of Academic Learning and Teaching delivered a heartfelt message during the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme Information Session held at Fiji National University’s (FNU) Pasifika campus in Suva on Friday, 28 March.
“Students, you are here today because your home governments identified you as changemakers. The Manaaki Scholarship is not merely an academic opportunity; it is a call to action. Each of you was chosen to study in fields pivotal to your nation’s development. Remember: the knowledge and skills you gain here are tools to build stronger health systems, economies, and societies back home,” she added, highlighting the inherent responsibilities entwined with the scholarship.
As these scholars commence this new chapter, they embody the spirit of collaboration and hope that the Manaaki Scholarship represents — a bridge between nations. “Dream boldly, work hard, and embrace this opportunity. The challenges ahead will shape you into the leaders your communities need,” Baleisomi added, encouraging the students.
Vanessa Heghilyn Tuni, a first-year Bachelor of Health Services Management at the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences from the Solomon Islands excited to pursue her late father’s dream of becoming a Health worker.
Among the new scholars is 20-year-old Vanessa Heghilyn Tuni, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Health Services Management at the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS). Tuni reflected on her journey, saying, “This scholarship has allowed me to fulfil my late father’s dream. He always wanted me to serve the community by providing health services in the western province of the Solomon Islands. I am determined to bring about positive change in our medical system after my education here.”
: Shamayel Shafiee Allaf, originally from Iran is a resident of Vanuatu and has shared her excitement of studying in Fiji through the Manaaki Scholarship Programme.
Also in attendance was Shamayel Shafiee Allaf, originally from Iran but a resident of Port Vila, Vanuatu, who is currently an ongoing Manaaki Scholar pursuing her Master of Medicine in Emergency Medicine. The 33-year-old shared her passion, stating, “Working in the Vanuatu health service for the past seven years has shown me the need for emergency consultants in my country. I am driven to help my community and improve our health services through my education at FNU.”
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship programme is New Zealand’s largest scholarship initiative, extending its funding through New Zealand’s Aid Programme to benefit citizens of developing nations worldwide in various fields of study.
The Information Session provided students with crucial insights into the support services FNU offers, including student support services, admission and registration, finance, and the calendar of events.
FNU remains dedicated to providing its scholars with a nurturing and supportive educational environment, ensuring that their academic journeys are complemented by robust pastoral care systems. Over the forthcoming months, FNU will collaborate with MFAT to create activities and plans designed to help scholars thrive both academically and socially in Fiji.
For more information visit the FNU website at http://www.fnu.ac.fj
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