Shavnesh Chand is a third year student pursuing a Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the Fiji School of Medicine (FSM)

At just 21 years old, Shavnesh Chand is in his third year of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery programme at the Fiji School of Medicine (FSM). For him, dentistry is more than just a career—it is a responsibility towards improving oral health and making people feel confident in their smiles.

“Dentistry is a very interesting course because it allows us, as students and future dentists, to take care of patients’ oral health,” Shavnesh said. He explained that oral health plays a big role in how people live their daily lives. Without proper dental care, individuals may feel shy or struggle to socialise, as oral problems can affect their confidence and wellbeing.

The programme is both demanding and rewarding, as students are trained not only to treat oral diseases but also to guide patients through proper care and prevention. “We are given a lot of information and resources, and it is up to us to take it seriously and apply it in practice. It’s not just about fixing problems, but also about helping people understand what lies beyond treatment—answering their questions, guiding them, and ensuring they feel comfortable,” he added.

Shavnesh is grateful for the opportunity to pursue this path and is determined to use his knowledge to serve communities in Fiji. For him, dentistry is not just about teeth—it’s about restoring confidence, improving lives, and giving people a reason to smile.