Programs of choice
FIJI National University (FNU) has something for everyone.
This is a sentiment that’s beingshared to visitors at the Fiji National University’s roadshows currently happening around the country, the purpose of which is to make it easier for students to access the university’s services and learn more about their program of choice.
“At FNU, there is a wide range of programs,” Rusila Uluilakeba, the team leader of the Nausori FNU roadshow said.
“There are seven colleges within FNU, so when a student comes and shows interest, we put them in the appropriate college.
“If their interest is in IT or computer science, we put them through the College of Engineering, but if they’re interested in being a sea captain or marine engineer, then we put them through the Fiji Maritime Academy.”
Aside from higher education, FNU also offers technical and vocational education and training for those who want to learn a trade or for school leavers who only finish school up to Year 10 or Year 11.
For Viliame Cobua, 20, who was at the Nausori roadshow, this is precisely the reason he has chosen FNU as he wishes to do a course in joinery and cabinetry.
“I chose FNU because some of the courses I wanted to take weren’t offered at USP and had a bit of a different standard,” Mr Cobua said.
The roadshows currently held nationwide will go on until February 3.
“Even if you are a Year 11 drop out, FNU has TVET courses that prepare you for higher education,” FNU marketing specialist Eroni Navunisaravi said.
The roadshow is an initiative aimed at bringing the institution closer to prospective students.
Verenaisi Madigi, a Vashist Muni High School graduate, expressed her gratitude for the convenience of applying to FNU, emphasising its proximity to her home.
Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in industrial relations and human resources, Ms Madigi aspires to make a difference in the field by cultivating her skills and knowledge at FNU.
The roadshows serve as a gateway for individuals, like Ms Madigi, who aspire to join FNU, providing easy access to all facilities without the need to travel from Navua to the Suva campus.
“We are actually bringing the university to the people,” said Torela Maure outreach specialist for FNU, highlighting the highest turnout she has ever seen in Navua this year.
Aarti Lata, a Year 13 graduate from Vashist Muni College, attributed the surge in applicantions to FNU to the high pass rate in the 2023 Year 13 examination.
Alvin Chand, a mathematics lecturer at FNU, said organisations frequently approach the university for internship opportunities.
In Navua, a growing number, currently three individuals and counting, had applied to enrol at the engineering school.
“FNU provides a foundation for individuals to grow and learn,” said Ms Maure.
With a diverse range of academic programs and support services, FNU aims to cater to the unique needs and aspirations of every student, fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment.
The university’s commitment to accessibility and partnerships further solidifies its role in shaping the educational journey and future success of its students.
As Ms Maure puts it, “FNU has something for everybody, and we’re dedicated to ensuring that every student finds their path to success within our vibrant academic community.”