Veena Singh has been an advocate of gender equality, social inclusion, women’s peace and security and human rights for over fifteen years and has now added a Postgraduate Diploma in Social Policy from the Fiji National University (FNU) into the mix.

Singh, a feminist development practitioner currently works as the Research Officer at the Pacific Community’s (SPC) Human Rights and Social Division. She recently graduated from FNU’s College of Humanities and Education (CHE).

“I wanted to participate in a field of study that went beyond the textbooks, one that would give me the opportunity to learn, to expand my knowledge base and to also challenge me. The way the programme was structured gave me the flexibility to balance work, life, and postgraduate study. My professor and lecturer created an enabling environment to learn and were very supportive of my learning and development,” stated Singh.

She selected the Postgraduate Diploma in Social Policy programme as it aligned with exactly what she wanted to pursue.

“I was given the opportunity to discuss my future learning plans with my lecturer and professor. So, I suppose the supportive encouragement to learn in an institution like FNU started even before I confirmed and enrolled on the programme. I think the human side of learning that goes beyond systems, paperwork and textbooks came first and was a priority, and very evident through my engagements and this was what had drawn me to FNU and to my chosen area of study,” added Singh.

The FNU alumna added that her postgraduate qualification has equipped her with additional skills and value which has enriched her overall professional work experience.

“Now I have in-depth knowledge, strengthened capabilities, analysis, and research skills on social policy. I got to learn more about social policy discourses, philosophical arguments, and have also been able to access journals, academic papers, and critiques on various aspects of social policy.”

“I would most definitely encourage incoming students to enrol in this programme. If you are coming in with a teachable and learning attitude then you will learn so much, and more. Having great educators and peers just makes the learning process more fun and bearable especially for someone like me who was juggling full-time work, health, managing home and family life amidst other life commitments.”

Sharing some sage words of advice, Singh encouraged the students to “Be teachable, always be curious about learning and be humble.”

“It is never too late to study and you are never too old to graduate. Also, surround yourself with different types of diverse people who will introduce you to different or new concepts, new ways of doing things, and those that will allow you access to various knowledge systems that may not be readily available to you.”

Prospective students who wish to study Postgraduate Diploma in Social Policy or any other programmes at FNU are encouraged to Apply Now for Semester 1, 2022 studies via the Admission Application portal on the FNU website.  Click on https://www.fnu.ac.fj/study/apply/

Students can also text on 857 or email admission@fnu.ac.fj if they face difficulties completing the process online or need further admission information.