The Fiji National University has had an overhaul in its Council members where Dr. Kesaia Seniloli is the new Chair while Semesa Karavaki is the Deputy Chair.
Other members include Dr. Priscilla Puamau, Ravindra Nair, Navin Shayam, Ofa Swann, Dr, Enasio Morris, Pravinesh Singh, Peter Zinck, Selina Likutekula Vatuvoka, Dr. Alisi Talatoka Vudiniabola and Veniana Naqasima.
Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro says the appointments have been carried out in accordance with the FNU Act of 2009.
Radrodro says the changes to the FNU Council is in line with the focus of the Coalition Government to ensure Fiji’s universities train people, and equip them with the right skill set and character, which supports Fiji’s National Development Goals through a highly competitive human resource sector.
He says the council members are from various fields of expertise which includes members of the teaching, legal, finance, the health and social sciences professions.
The Minister says ensuring the Council also had gender balance was crucial, and he is particularly pleased to have a great Council composition whose members come with various; and extensive years, of professional experience and leadership that will benefit FNU.
Radrodro says the Coalition Government will continue to support FNU through funding and policy guidance; in recognition of its integral role in the development of Fiji’s human resource sector, through education provision and learning.
He stresses the newly appointed Council members will have a lot riding on them, to work with the academic staff and members of the FNU, so that the University can achieve its intended goals for Fiji; and any regional or international partners, whose students have also chosen to pursue higher education through the FNU.
The Minister says the Ministry of Education expects the FNU Council to update Government on a monthly basis, with respect to the review of the FNU programmes; its viability or further development, and any other expansion or necessary restructure; that the University needs, while it is supporting Fiji’s National Education Agenda.
He says he cannot stress enough, that student education and upskilling is a vital part of building Fiji’s current and future human resource capacity; and therefore the FNU must package itself in such a way that it responds to the needs of students who have gone to FNU as their University of choice.
Radrodro further says he is encouraging all Council members, and staff of FNU, to make students their primary customer; and to impart them with knowledge, skills and character that lasts long after the students exit the University.
He says the power of education extends beyond the development of skills needed for economic success; as it can contribute to nation-building, and reconciliation.
