The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, Honourable Manoa Seru Kamikamica urged IT vendors, technologists, service providers and investors to work closely with the Fiji National University (FNU) and the Coalition Government.

This is to devise solutions to support Fiji’s exponential growth in the regional and global market at the 5th National Conference on Information Technology which is currently underway at the Pearl Resort & Spa.

“As we continue to invest in improving the country’s ICT infrastructure, expanding broadband internet access, particularly in rural and remote areas, our aim is to ensure that more Fijians can benefit from digital services and participate in the digital economy,” said Honourable Kamikamica.

The Minister, who has been a pivotal figure in driving the ICT agenda in Fiji challenged the attendees conference attendees to commit to working together to harness the power of technology not just for profit, but for progress.

“The intersection of operational excellence, revolutionary innovation, sustainable development, and governance is where the future of Information Technology lies. It is in this space that we have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to create a better world.

“Let us strive for excellence not just in our operations, but in our impact on society and the environment. Let us innovate boldly, but also responsibly, with an eye toward the long-term consequences of our actions. And let us govern with integrity, ensuring that our advancements are guided by principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability,” emphasised Honourable Kamikamica.

Pro-Vice-Chancellor TVET, Dr Isimeli Tagicakiverata, said that FNU’s initiatives in offering cutting-edge courses, fostering industry partnerships, and promoting research and innovation have played a vital role in ensuring that students are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the future.

“The efforts in blending traditional education with modern technological tools are helping us to create a generation of Fijians who are not only consumers of technology but also creators and innovators,” said Dr Tagicakiverata.

“Our efforts in advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training and fostering a culture of innovation have significantly contributed to our national goals.”

The two-day National Conference on Information Technology organised by FNU’s National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) will conclude tomorrow.