A total of 11 recipients were honoured across four award categories: Research Excellence Award for Staff, Research Excellence Award for Early Career Researchers, Research Excellence Award for Graduate Students, and Research Innovation Excellence Awards.
FNU Chancellor Dr Adi Alisi Talatoka Vudiniabola says research is essential to helping Fiji and the Pacific respond to challenges such as climate change, food security, health and economic development.
She says research is about finding practical solutions that improve the lives of people and contribute to Fiji's future.
Dr Vudiniabola encouraged researchers, especially early career academics and graduate students, to continue asking important questions, pursuing innovation and contributing to national development.
Meanwhile, Pro Vice-Chancellor Corporate Services Professor Nii-K Plange says research should not remain within universities but must make a real difference in communities.
He says researchers should work closely with people to better understand the challenges they face and develop practical solutions.
Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation Dr Donald Wilson says the awards recognise excellence at every stage of a researcher's career, from graduate students to established academics.
He says while publications, grants and awards are important, the true impact of research lies in the lives it improves, the communities it serves and the knowledge it creates for future generations.
