We need trained specialists, and designers to create, operate and implement technologies that will enhance our communities moving forward, says Education Minister, Honourable Aseri Radrodro.

Honourable Radrodro was speaking as Chief Guest at the Fiji National University’s (FNU), College of Engineering, Science and Technology (CEST) graduation session yesterday afternoon in Suva.

“Engineering, science, and technology are the backbone of development.  Graduands, the College that you are graduating from today comprises of key sectors that will help us build our country into Fiji that we will all be proud of,” the Minister said.

“FNU has strong foundations in Fiji’s educational landscape through its former national institutions such as the Fiji Institute of Technology, Fiji School of Medicine,  Lautoka  Teachers College and Fiji  College of Agriculture, to name a few.”

“We look forward to witnessing the progress and innovation that will be displayed by FNU’s learning, teaching and research ventures.”

FNU Chancellor and Chair of Council, Dr Adi Kesaia Seniloli said the core role of the FNU Council was to ensure the University was aligned with its strategic objectives.

“Through the continued support of the Fijian Government, FNU Council, and key stakeholders, FNU will continue to assist our local, regional, and international students in achieving their academic aspirations,” Dr Adi Seniloli said.

FNU Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said FNU valued its students and has produced numerous graduates who are excelling in their respective fields.

“It is worth recalling that a diamond can only be formed through the application of immense heat and pressure, and once polished, it becomes a precious gem,” Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said.

“Today, you are that precious gem that FNU has polished, and you are now ready to shine bright in your chosen field of work.”

CEST graduate Akash Avishek Raj travelled from Lautoka in the early hours of the morning to be part of the graduation ceremony yesterday.

Raj graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Computer Science and Information Systems).

Akash Avishek Raj, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Computer and Information System), with his parents from the College.

“I am feeling overwhelmed. I am happy to be finally graduating; my parents and I left Lautoka at 5 in the morning to be here,” Raj explained.

The 25-year-old, who is a former student of Pundit Vishnu Deo College in Saweni, Lautoka, dedicated his achievement to his parents.

“My father has been my biggest pillar of strength during my academic journey. He advised me to follow my passion and I did.”

“I am currently working at Jacks of Fiji as an IT Technician, which is something I enjoy.”

“I have a passion for computers, I like to keep up with the latest trends in technology and that is why I chose to study a programme that involved technology.”

572 students graduated from FNU’s College of Engineering, Science and Technology (CEST) yesterday afternoon. This cohort included 29 Postgraduate, 98 undergraduate and 445 Diploma and Certificate graduates.’

A total of 1874 students graduated from the four ceremonies held in Suva, and in Labasa next week. 860 of these graduates are female.