Nainoca Breaks Norm in Pursuit of Customs Education at FNU

Posted On: January 11, 2024

Sharon Nainoca at the Nasinu campus enrolment center

Year 13 students who have received their external examination results can visit the Fiji National University (FNU) Roadshow booth this Saturday, 13 January 2024 at the Max Val-U carpark in Nausori to submit or complete their application process, obtain academic counselling and receive offer letters for those eligible.

The team will be at the Nausori venue from 9AM to 3PM on Saturday. A nation-wide Roadshow will also commence from next week.

FNU remains committed to providing accessible and quality technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and higher education to all Fijians.

One such TVET student is Sharon Nainoca, a driven and resilient young woman who recently enrolled into FNU’s Diploma in Customs (Level 5) programme.

Driven by her interest in international relations, Nainoca is commencing her academic journey in Customs at FNU with a clear vision to pursue a career with the Fiji Revenue & Customs Service (FRCS) in this field.

“I was always interested in international relations, and I thought it would be interesting to learn about it through the customs lens,” she said.

“Besides, I come from a family lineage of medical and law practitioners, and none in the business or the tourism sector.”

“I wanted to be the first in our family to carve a different path, hence choosing this field in customs. What I have started here is a stepping stone to effect change in my family.”

Nainoca, who completed her secondary education at Adi Cakobau School (ACS), aspires to create a legacy of her own and for her young son. Immediately after completing her secondary education, she embraced the joys of motherhood, welcoming a baby boy in November last year.

“My son is my driving force. I want him to look at me one day and see not just a mother but a woman who pursued her aspirations without giving up, that his existence was my motivation to return to school.”

In her inspiring message to other young women facing similar situations, Nainoca said, “It is never too late to pursue your dreams. Do not be too hard on yourself, embrace life’s challenges.”

“Remember, your mental health is important. If you need help, seek counselling, it is a courageous step toward overcoming life’s challenges. There’s always a light at the end of the tunnel.”

Nainoca acknowledged the pivotal role of FNU in providing an accessible and conducive learning environment.

“It is also affordable and has a diverse student body,” she said.

Nainoca’s story stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and the pursuit of one’s aspirations despite adversities.

Apply Now

The Certificate and Diploma in Customs programmes are now offered in the Nasinu, Namaka, Labasa, and Ba campuses.

Students interested in undertaking FNU’s Diploma in Customs (Level 5) programme can Apply Now for Semester 1, 2024 studies via the FNU website at https://www.fnu.ac.fj/student/ or email admission@fnu.ac.fj

For further information or queries, students can also Text (Toll-Free) to 857 for Vodafone and Inkk users.

Alternatively, applicants can visit our Koronivia, Nasinu, Derrick, Namaka, Natabua, Ba and Labasa campuses to submit applications.