The University of Fiji’s School of Sciences and Technology together with the University of South Australia aims to deepen institutional ties, facilitate knowledge exchange, and pave the way for collaborative research initiatives.
UniFiji also held a study tour which included the planting of 150 trees at Malomalo Settlement near Sigatoka to foster the bond between the locals and the visitors.
The students from UniSA also participated in the tour of the UniFiji Campus in Saweni, interactive seminars, and panel discussions.
UniSA’s Dr. Permal Deo says the collaborative study tour has been immensely rewarding, setting a strong foundation for fruitful collaboration and mutual learning between UniFiji and the University of South Australia.
He says they are thrilled to embark on this journey of academic exploration and look forward to further enriching exchanges in the days to come.
UniFiji’s Professor Dan Orcherton, Kelera Railoa and Dr Ramendra Prasad highlighted on the platform for sharing best practices in the School of Sciences and Technology projects and programmes, traditional knowledge and Western sciences as well as summaries of previous projects/programmes in Kiribati including research methodologies, and innovations in Medicinal Plant research.
They say the discussions and dialogues from UniSA students and UniFiji representatives, offered a glimpse into the rich heritage and traditions of Fiji, enhancing cross-cultural understanding and appreciation among the visiting cohort.
The study tour also included a guided tour of the Ministry of Agriculture Sigatoka Research Station where students delved into the realm of exotic and native fruit trees, learned about grafting techniques, explored the medicinal properties of plants, and even got introduced to the art of grafting Dragon Fruit.
