She was named winner in the Research Excellence Award for Early Career Researcher.
Dr Chand, who is from the College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, says she was surprised to receive the award, admitting she did not expect her name to be called.
Her research examined how farmers receive information and how technology can improve communication with them, particularly during cyclones and other climate-related events.
She says the study looked at the types of media farmers prefer, the challenges they face in accessing information, and how Government policies can better support the use of information and communication technology in agriculture.
Dr Chand says completing the research was not easy.
She began her PhD during the COVID-19 pandemic while on scholarship in China but was unable to travel because of border restrictions. She completed her coursework online before travelling to China for her research proposal defence. She later returned to Fiji to collect data from farmers before going back to China to analyse the data and complete her thesis.
Although the research took about three years of active work, the overall journey lasted four years because of the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
Reflecting on her achievement, Dr Chand says she was proud to see many women recognised at the awards, saying it encourages more women to pursue research and innovation that can benefit Fiji.
Dr Chand says studying for a PhD can be mentally challenging and urged researchers to look after their mental health, spend time with supportive family and friends, and never be afraid to ask for help.
Dr Chand credits her husband, family, colleagues and the Dean of her College for supporting and encouraging her throughout her journey, saying their belief in her helped her reach the finish line.
