First-year students’ turnout out in numbers to attend the Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS) special orientation for its first-year students at the Nasinu Campus yesterday.

The Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS) hosted a special orientation for its first-year students at the Nasinu Campus yesterday. The event saw an impressive turnout, as new students gathered to learn more about their courses, programmes, and to connect with their lecturers.

Dr Asaeli Tuibeqa, Dean of CBHTS, expressed his excitement over the turnout and emphasised the importance of connecting with students from the very beginning.

“We were excited to see the turnout of our first-year students. It was critical for us to make this connection early,” Dr Tuibeqa said.

The College had conducted a study two years ago, which revealed that 30% of first-year students struggle with the transition from secondary school to tertiary education. This discovery led the College to host the special orientation for incoming students.

“We need to take this initiative and host a special orientation. The second- and third-year students already have their experience, but for the first-year students, we need to support them from day one,” explained Dr Tuibeqa.

The College aims to offer more than just academic support. Dr Tuibeqa likened the guidance given to students to that of a mother supporting her child.

“We want to handhold them, just like a mother. Some of these students are our relatives, and as parents ourselves, it is our duty to guide them, motivate them, and steer them in the right direction,” he said.

The focus of the orientation was to ensure students not only understand their courses but also feel supported in their overall journey. Dr Tuibeqa highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to education.

“Education is not only about teaching but also guiding students throughout their academic journey, ensuring they finish their programme successfully,” he added.

CBHTS believes this orientation initiative will be an ongoing practice, aimed at improving the students’ overall experience.

Dr Tuibeqa stressed that, “It is all about connecting with the students, bringing them into a completely different environment, and sharing what we expect from them.”

He also highlighted the importance of providing clear, accessible information to first-year students.

“We believe this initiative should be reflected on the FNU website, ensuring that first-year students receive the right and necessary information,” Dr Tuibeqa said.

He further noted that if the transition was not managed well, it could result in students failing or dropping out, which the College strives to prevent.

CBHTS is known for its goal-oriented approach, focusing on high-quality performance and student success.

“We expect our students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and to be strategic thinkers, innovators, and leaders,” Dr Tuibeqa concluded.

“We want our students to contribute meaningfully to their communities after they graduate.”

This special orientation marks just the beginning of a supportive journey at CBHTS, where student success is at the heart of everything they do.

ENDS