To establish multiple institutions concurrently with more to follow speaks to innovation, confidence, and a deep belief in Fiji’s economic resilience.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka highlighted this while launching he Canterbury Language Academy, Pacific Study Hub, and the Oceania Institute of Technology, saying this reflects an entrepreneurial courage that deserves national recognition.
Gavoka says when Dr. Hasmukh Lal first visited his office several months ago, he shared not merely a business proposal, but a national vision one that positioned Fiji as a destination of learning, a centre of educational excellence, and a bridge between the Pacific and the wider world.
The Deputy Prime Minister says today, that vision moves from aspiration to action.
He says the Coalition Government warmly acknowledges this investment of personal capital, conviction and leadership as such decisions demonstrate trust in our economy and, more importantly, commitment to developing human capital, generating foreign exchange, and strengthening inclusive economic growth for our people.
Gavoka says Dr. Hasmukh’s journey from humble beginnings to educator, executive, and now investor is a powerful story of patriotism, perseverance and purpose.
He says it reminds us that nation-building is not the task of government alone, but a shared responsibility.
The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledges with respect the values instilled by his late father and his mother, who joins us today values that have clearly shaped a leader of character and conscience.
He says that Education tourism is a growing pillar of the global economy as it encompasses short-term cultural and language immersion, as well as long-term academic and professional study across borders and the Canterbury Language Academy embodies this opportunity.
Gavoka says through academic, professional, occupational and conversational English programmes delivered in partnership with internationally recognised institutions, Fiji is positioning itself as a welcoming, affordable and high-quality learning destination, and of particular significance is the integration of language learning with leisure and cultural experiences.
He says this innovative model allows visitors from Japan, Korea, China and beyond to combine education with Fiji’s renowned hospitality, natural beauty and cultural richness - strengthening tourism while expanding skills and cross cultural understanding.
The Deputy Prime Minister says international education is one of the world’s most competitive and lucrative sectors, and in Australia alone, it generates tens of billions of dollars annually and underpins entire regional economies.
He says global pressures - including housing shortages and visa constraints - have reshaped how education is delivered.
Gavoka says increasingly, universities are embracing transnational education models, allowing students to begin their studies offshore and complete them onshore and the Pacific Study Hub aligns Fiji squarely within this global shift.
He says by hosting students in Fiji for part of their academic journey - through fully online delivery supported by physical learning infrastructure, pastoral care and student services, Fiji becomes a
trusted partner to international universities and a cost-effective pathway for Pacific and
international learners.
The Deputy Prime Minister says for Fijian families, this model reduces financial barriers, while for international students, it offers significant savings while maintaining academic integrity and internationally recognised qualifications.
He adds for Fiji, it means increased economic activity, skills exposure and global connectivity.
