FNU Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba with the invited guests and regional students at the flag-raising ceremony at CMNHS.

Medical students from the 12 Pacific Island countries attending the Fiji National University’s (FNU), College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS) were reminded of the key role they play in shaping the future of the health sector in the region.

Chief Guest and FNU’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba highlighted this during the recent flag-raising and the welcoming of the regional student’s ceremony held at the Pasifika Campus.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor said the university was grateful to its respective country partners and agencies for selecting CMNHS as the institution whereby its students could undertake health and medical studies.

“CMNHS, in its close to 140 years of existence, has always been training health professionals from around the Pacific region,” Professor Nabobo-Baba said.

“So, to our students, while you work hard at learning how to learn at a tertiary level, don’t forget to make the most of your opportunities to learn about other cultures, make new friends, and share the uniqueness of your own selves while you are immersed in Fijian culture and society.”

FNU Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba with the FNUSA representatives and regional students.

“I trust that your time here will be well-spent as you get yourselves equipped to return and improve the health and medical services and serve your people better.”

CMNHS Acting Dean, Dr Odille Chang added that the College had a long and vibrant past and the flag-raising ceremony has become an important event in recent years where many have been part of this event in the past and have pursued successful careers in the medical, dental, nursing, and allied health fields.

“Today, we stand unified under the banner of health education and regional cooperation, we have the distinct honour of raising the flags of the beautiful Pacific nations, representing the diversity and unity that enriches our academic community,” Dr Chang said.

“This ceremony is a poignant reminder of our shared commitment to promote global understanding and collaborative progress, particularly in the vital field of healthcare.”

“Each flag represents not only a nation’s sovereignty but also its vibrant culture, rich heritage, and unwavering dedication to improving the well-being of its people. As aspiring Pacific healthcare professionals, it is imperative that our students embrace the values of compassion, inclusivity, and respect for diverse perspectives.”

“This also signifies that our country has high expectations for each one of you to excel in your field of study and contribute positively to your country’s development.

Second-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery student from Kiribati, Tywan Terubea, said the Fiji National University’s Regional Countries Flag-raising Ceremony was a profoundly emotional and passionate celebration that filled the hearts of many regional students with pride.

“As a regional student, this event transcends mere symbolism; it signifies unity and the deep bonds we share. When our flags ascend together, we honour our homelands and ancestors, igniting a fierce pride in our cultural heritage,” she said.

“We are proud of FNU for hosting such events in showcasing our culture and the true Pacific Spirit.”