Matnan pursues Dentistry dream at FNU

Press Release Posted On: May 5, 2022

Marciarose Matnan travelled 5000 kilometres away from home in order to pursue her academic ambitions and help communities on her island nation.

Matnan from Yap island in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), is a first-year Bachelor of Oral Health student at the Fiji National University’s (FNU), College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences’ (CMNHS).

Along with her colleagues, Matnan had the opportunity to introduce herself and explain why she chose to study Dentistry during a meet and greet session organised by the College’s School of Dentistry and Oral Health.

“Back home, betel nut chewing is a major part of our culture, but one that has dire consequences,” the 20-year-old said.

“Most people back home in FSM chew this (betel nut) daily and this impacted most of our communities because of the high rate of oral cancer.”

“I chose this field of study because I want to graduate, return, and contribute to my community.”

World Health Organization (WHO) studies reveal that over 80% of people over 15 years of age that lived in Yap chewed betel nut. It stated that overall, almost 30% of the total population of FSM used betel nut daily.

“I don’t think a lot of people understand the health impacts that come with chewing betel nut, and I intend to play a role in creating awareness in the communities back home,” Matnan explained.

“I want them to have all the information they need to make informed health decisions on their own.”

“This is why I am grateful to be studying in Fiji through an Australian Awards scholarship.”

Matnan said she was excited to begin her three-year studies, and become more acquainted with her peers and the academic, and support staff.

“I get to study with people from different backgrounds and I’ve already met a lot of great people, so I am definitely looking forward to an enriching student learning experience,” she shared.