From left: National Rugby Referee Manager, High-Performance Unit, Fiji Rugby Union, James Bolabiu, FNU’s Assistant Lecturer in Physical Education, Varanisese Tagimaucia, Head of Natabua Campus, Perry Gabriel and Assistant Lecturer and FNU Natabua Rugby Club Coach, Josaia Tulomana at Natabua Campus.

A promising future is on the horizon for the Fiji National University (FNU) in collaboration with the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) through World Rugby certification, as the university set to usher in a new era of sports excellence. This partnership, underpinned by World Rugby certification, marks a significant milestone in the development of rugby education and training in Fiji.

This follows recent discussions between the Head of Natabua Campus, Perry Gabriel, Assistant Lecturer in Physical Education, Varanisese Tagimaucia; Assistant Lecturer and FNU Natabua Rugby Club Coach, Josaia Tulomana, and the National Rugby Referee Manager, High-Performance Unit, Fiji Rugby Union, James Bolabiu, regarding a potential Rugby Refereeing Certification Initiative in partnership with the FRU.

During the discussions, Gabriel emphasised that teacher-training institutions like FNU’s Natabua Campus provide ideal platforms for launching professional development programmes, given the nationwide reach of future teachers and the university’s facilities to support this initiative.

Bolabiu outlined the FRU’s vision to elevate rugby refereeing standards in Fiji by establishing structured training programmes for referees.

He highlighted that FNU’s Natabua and Nasinu Campuses were optimal locations due to their available facilities, trainee teacher cohorts, and internet connectivity.

“The programme structure will feature a six-week workshop series, with two-hour sessions per week leading up to the rugby season,” said Bolabiu.

“It will include a blend of practical sessions, such as on-field training, and virtual seminars featuring global referees who will share their expertise and inspire participants.

“The focus will be on refereeing as a professional skill and a potential income stream for graduates.”

He added that the expected outcome of the programme would be the development of elite referees who will enhance Fiji’s rugby ecosystem and positively impact all Fijian communities.

With Fiji’s rich rugby heritage and FNU’s commitment to academic and professional excellence, this partnership is poised to have lasting impact on the nation’s sporting landscape.