Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS) conducted its second workshop on Short Courses, titled “From Concept to Draft – Finalising Your Short Course,”, reinforcing its commitment to upskilling and lifelong learning for all Fijians. The workshop which was conducted under the leadership of CMNHS Acting Dean, Dr Amelia Turagabeci took place at the Studio 6 Conference Room in Suva yesterday, brought together 40 FNU staff members, including expert consultants assisting in shaping course content and conducting a needs survey to identify additional requirements within the health industry.

This initiative marks a significant step towards advancing vocational training in the health sector exploring opportunities for professional and personal development

Professor Aruna Devi, Associate Dean of TVET, highlighted the college’s new emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to bridge gaps in healthcare education. “While we have long delivered certificate-level courses, the current focus on upskilling those who have been left behind—particularly those who have not completed formal education—is critical,” Professor Devi said.

The workshop aimed to design and put into templates short courses addressing industry demands while aligning with FNU’s strategic and national development plans. Following the success of the first workshop in December last year, where staff identified essential areas for specialising in the health sector, yesterday’s session focused on developing these courses and preparing them for the necessary approval processes. Among the courses being developed are options for healthcare workers without formal qualifications, such as ward staff, to upgrade their skills in areas like infection prevention, which will help them explore pathways for career advancement.

“We are not only focused on graduates but also those currently working in the health sector in need of upgrading their skills and expertise in the sector,” Professor Devi added.

Course developing members discussed the potential to bridge the gaps in the health sector during Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS) Short Course workshop, titled “From Concept to Draft – Finalising Your Short Course”, at the Studio 6 Conference Room in Suva yesterday.

The courses will predominantly be delivered online to facilitate accessibility for individuals in rural regions of Fiji and for students who have not completed their secondary education. This flexible approach allows participants to complete the courses at their own pace without the need to travel to the main campus.

CMNHS Associate Dean of Learning and Teaching, Professor Jayantha Weerasinghe, highlighted that these short courses encompass Continuous Professional Development (CPD), micro-credentials, and stackable short courses. He said this structure allows healthcare workers to gain credit points and ultimately work toward a postgraduate diploma without needing to travel to Fiji.

Once fully developed and approved, the new short courses will be launched in the latter half of the year, providing essential updates and upskilling opportunities for healthcare professionals in Fiji and the wider region.

FNU encourages professionals and lifelong learners to attend and take advantage of the learning opportunities available at the university.

ENDS