UniFiji signs MOU with University of Canterbury to strengthen academic and research collaboration

The University of Fiji and the University of Canterbury (NZ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote academic and research cooperation between the two institutions.

The agreement, signed by UniFiji Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem and University of Canterbury Vice-Chancellor Professor Cheryl de la Rey, establishes a framework for collaboration that recognises the shared commitment of both universities to advancing higher education, innovation and cross-cultural academic exchange.

The University of Fiji says the collaboration also aligns with their strategic plan to focus on ‘Research and Innovation and Community Engagement’, reinforcing its commitment to developing future-ready graduates equipped for global citizenship.

Addressing the University of Canterbury Vice-Chancellor and Executive Deans, Professor Shameem says that not only was she a proud alumna of the University of Canterbury, having graduated with a Master of Arts in 1983, but she also found it deeply meaningful that, more than 40 years later, she had returned to sign an MOU between her alma mater and her current institution, the University of Fiji.

She adds that having her friends from the Sociology Class of ’83 witness the event made it even more special and further consolidated the deep connections between the University of Fiji and the University of Canterbury, which is known for its strong academic credentials and top global ranking.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Canterbury, Professor Cheryl de la Rey, says that under the MOU, the two universities will collaborate in several key areas.

This includes the exchange of academic materials and resources, faculty, staff, and student exchanges across disciplines; development of joint research programmes and academic projects of mutual interest; co-sponsorship of symposium, seminars, and conferences; and cooperation in the development of education and training programmes with potential for joint degree offerings.

Professor Rey says that through their shared vision for promoting academic excellence and collaborative learning, the two universities aim to strengthen and enhance academic advancement across the region.

UniFiji says the new partnership underscores their ongoing efforts to build international academic linkages that enhance the quality of higher education and research across the Pacific.