Head of State honoured to be part of FNU Labasa graduation ceremony

Press Release Posted On: March 14, 2023

Fiji National University 2023 Labasa graduation ceremony underway at the Civic Centre in Labasa.

The Fiji National University graduates has an important task to continue to make an impact in the country with their hard work, commitment, and dedication.

This message was shared by Chief Guest and the President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, during the Fiji National University’s Labasa graduation ceremony today.

“I am honoured today as the Head of State to be part of the Labasa graduation ceremony this morning. I have attended the Labasa graduation ceremonies before, in my capacity as the former Chairperson of the FNU Labasa Stakeholder’s Advisory Committee,” His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere said.

“Being associated with this University for long, I am aware that most of you have been away from your homes for quite a while now for the duration of your studies.

“I am sure that all of you sitting here today in your graduation gowns carry years of education and experience that you have gained as students of FNU- the sacrifices and now the achievements has paid off.

“The University continues to provide an enriching experience to students by ensuring that you have state of the art resources, as well as programmes for both local and regional students.”

FNU Chancellor and Chair of Council, Dr Adi Kesaia Seniloli congratulated all the parents and guardians in the hall of the Civic Centre in Labasa.

“Believe me, as a parent, you will remember this moment throughout your life. You have played your part in the success of your child, and I congratulate you for your role as coach, mentor, parent, and friend,” Dr Adi Kesaia Seniloli said.

“It is pleasing to see that Fiji National University was chosen as the University of learning that trained and qualified students who will now go into the world and implement the skills, knowledge, and expertise acquired at the University.”

FNU Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said graduates are not only valued by the university, but also by the government and the people of Fiji.

“Graduates, you are so important, you are the heartbeat and these blue gowns that you are wearing will move Fiji forward,” the Acting Vice-Chancellor said.

“Your decisions will be crucial not only to someone working in the offices of Suva City, but also to someone from the interior of Naitasiri who sells their produce in the markets – in other words, all of us in Fiji and beyond.

 A diamond is polished in immense pressure- and FNU has polished you,” she said.

“You have reached the top of one mountain – you also have begun today the climb to the next mountain!”

Doreen Vikashni Chand wants to encourage women to continue with their education regardless of any hinderance.

Doreen Vikashni Chand graduated with a Master of Education from FNU’s College of Humanities and Education (CHE).

Chand was among the 134 students who graduated from the Fiji National University’s March 2023 graduation ceremony in Labasa today.

The 39-year-old, mother of two daughters, graduated with a Master of Education from FNU’s College of Humanities and Education (CHE).

“I want to encourage women out there; that you can still make a difference regardless of where you are. I would encourage the women in Fiji to enrol into a university and continue with their education as I had found FNU’s flexible mode of learning very convenient to me.

A teacher at Batanikama College in Labasa, Chand was bestowed the honour of delivering the Vote of Thanks at the graduation ceremony in Labasa today.

“I feel very happy, and I feel that the long journey that I started a few years ago has finally come to the finishing line and I am happy, and I feel blessed. Now, I am ready to share my knowledge, apply it to my field of study,” Chand said.

“I chose to be a teacher because I had the passion for teaching and I really love teaching. I wanted to make a difference in society.

“My inspiration has always been the women leaders of our country. I have always been inspired by them.”

A total of 1874 students graduated from the five ceremonies held in Suva, and in Labasa.