Four FNU students set sail on fully funded maritime scholarships

A sense of renewed opportunity filled the Fiji National University’s Nasinu Campus today as four students were awarded fully funded maritime scholarships under a new tripartite agreement aimed at strengthening Fiji’s future maritime workforce.

The four applicants are Lania Alexander Roberts, Anasa Rasiga, Batidreu Seuseuvanua, and Richard Theodore Evans. 

The scholarships were announced during the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoU)this morning between Swire Shipping, Fiji National University (FNU), and the FNU Foundation, marking a significant partnership focused on expanding access to higher education for students from rural and maritime communities.

Under the agreement, two students will pursue a Diploma in Marine Engineering (Level 5) and two will undertake a Diploma in Nautical Science (Level 5) at the Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies.

The scholarships cover tuition fees, registration and enrolment costs, books, uniforms, personal protective equipment, food and travel allowances, as well as pre-employment medical examinations and maritime certification requirements through the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji.

Accommodation will be provided through the FNU Scholarship Fund for the duration of their studies.

FNU Foundation Executive Director Kanito Lovobalavu described the agreement as a milestone for both the institution and the scholarship recipients, saying the partnership demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations unite with a shared purpose.

Lovobalavu says the Foundation exists to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity, ensuring financial circumstances do not prevent capable students from accessing quality education.

He says the four recipients were selected through a rigorous process involving academic assessments, aptitude testing, medical clearances and interviews conducted jointly by the FNU Foundation, Swire Shipping and Alpha Navigation.

Selection was based not only on academic performance but also on character, resilience and leadership potential.

Swire Shipping Regional Manager Alex Pattison says the company’s involvement reflects its long-standing commitment to Pacific communities, having operated in the region for more than 80 years.

Pattison says investing in education and skills development was essential to building a resilient and capable maritime workforce for Fiji and the wider Pacific, adding that the programme also encourages greater gender equity in an industry where diversity remains important.