Participants of the 6th National Conference on Information Technology

The Fiji National University (FNU), through its National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC), successfully opened the 6th National Conference on Information Technology (NCIT) at the Warwick Resort today.

The two-day event, which has become one of Fiji’s leading ICT gatherings, brings together government leaders, industry experts, academics, students, and regional stakeholders to explore how digital transformation can drive innovation, inclusivity, and resilience across the Blue Pacific.

Acting AG and Minister for Justice, Honourable Siromi Turaga

Opening the conference, the Acting Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Honourable Siromi Turaga, commended FNU and its partners for providing a platform that goes beyond academia to influence national and regional policy.

“Technology is not a distant concept; it is shaping our lives every day. From how students learn online to how small businesses reach global markets, IT is the invisible thread that connects our communities and fuels opportunity,” Honourable Turaga said. “This conference is where knowledge meets policy, where innovation meets investment, and where real transformation begins.”

He also praised FNU’s efforts in taking the lead in exploring how Artificial Intelligence can support national growth.

“Whether it is in education, in occupational health and safety, or in healthcare, FNU is proving that AI can be embraced as a helping hand to reduce burdens, improve efficiency, and strengthen outcomes, while always keeping human dignity and values at the centre. For all this, I commend the leadership, the staff, the students, and the partners of FNU. The Coalition Government is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with you.”

The Honourable Minister highlighted the Coalition Government’s commitment to placing digitalisation at the heart of Fiji’s National Development Plan, citing advances such as the Digital Fiji initiative, mobile banking, expanded broadband connectivity, and new cybersecurity frameworks. He stressed that true transformation requires shared responsibility across government, academia, industry, and civil society.

FNU’s Pro Vice-Chancellor TVET Pasifika, Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata, echoed these sentiments in his welcome address, emphasising FNU’s leadership role in preparing the Pacific’s future workforce.

“Through our TVET Pasifika programmes, cutting-edge IT courses, and strong industry partnerships, FNU is shaping graduates who are not just users of technology but creators and innovators,” Dr Tagicakiverata said. “We are committed to building an inclusive digital future where women and youth play a central role in driving change.”

Left to Right: NTPC Director Industry Training, Salaseini Ligamamada, Acting AG and Minister for Justice, Honourable Siromi Turaga, Head of Training, Dept. of IT, Praneel Chand, PVC TVET, Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata

Both speakers highlighted recent milestones such as FNU’s hosting of the first-ever STEMtastic Adventures with Young Pacific Leaders Symposium, which encouraged greater participation of women in STEM and IT.

The NCIT 2025 programme includes sessions on artificial intelligence, cyber resilience, e-commerce, green ICT, and the role of disruptive technologies in transforming Pacific economies. Delegates will also explore how regional collaboration can ensure that the Pacific remains not only connected but united in the digital era.

The conference reaffirms FNU’s position as a leader in convening dialogue on digital transformation in the Pacific, while charting pathways for a more connected, resilient, and inclusive future.