Friends, Elenoa Keresi (left) and Ruci Motomoto.

Leaving their families and friends many miles away was a tough decision Elenoa Keresi and Ruci Motomoto had to make to pursue their dreams.

The 19-year-old girls attended Savusavu Secondary School and Navatu Secondary School respectively in the Northern Division.

They were part of the thousands of first-year students that attended the Semester 1, Fiji National University (FNU) College of Humanities and Education (CHE) Orientation at the Natabua Campus.

Keresi, a first-year student, enrolled in the Bachelor of Education (Secondary) (English and iTaukei) programme while Motomoto opted to focus on teaching primary school students in the future.

“We are so happy to be accepted at FNU’s Natabua Campus, especially coming all the way from Vanua Levu, this is our new home,” said Keresi.

FNU Vice Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba urged all students to do well.

“Change everything about you, learn to change, learn from even the cleaner, learn from the younger students, learn from the older students, learn from the people in the cafeteria, and in life those of us who continue to learn, go the heights, and that is a promise God gave us,” said Professor Nabobo-Baba.

“Use FNU to better everything about you!”

FNU Vice Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba (with garland) with the staff and students of Natabua Campus.

FNU’s Acting Pro Vice Chancellor Learning and Teaching, Dr Jimaima Lako highlighted to the students that they were now part of the FNU family playing a pivotal role in the learning environment in shaping future educators and leaders of Fiji and the world.

“Whether you aspire to become a teacher, a journalist, a counselor, a hairdresser or even a creative artist, or generally contribute to education in various capacities, the FNU, together with CHE, stays committed to providing you with the tools, right support and inspiration needed to achieve your personal and academic goals,” added Dr Lako.

CHE’s Acting Dean, Professor Mesake Dakuidreketi reiterated to the students that all staff stood ready to assist all students.

“Your success is our priority, and we are dedicated to providing you with the resources and encouragement you need to excel in your studies and academic journey. Ask questions if you have doubts about anything, we are here for you,” said Professor Dakuidreketi.