FNU honours former President with campus renaming in Labasa

The Fiji National University (FNU) today renamed its Naiyaca Campus in Labasa the Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere Campus, honouring the Turaga na Tui Macuata and former President of Fiji.

Ratu Wiliame officiated the renaming and groundbreaking ceremony, marking another milestone in FNU's expansion of higher education in the Northern Division.

He said the development fulfilled a vision first conceived 15 years ago through the faith of elders, the generosity of landowners and the patience of the people.

"This land was given in trust. Today, we honour that trust and take another step towards a future where our children can access quality education closer to home," he said.

Ratu Wiliame said the decision to dedicate the land to the university was an investment in future generations.

"As chiefs, we are custodians of the land. We are responsible for what we leave behind for our people," he said.

He acknowledged delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic but said the vision had never wavered.

FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said the occasion reflected the university's enduring partnership with the traditional landowners.

"We are standing on land that was given to us in trust. We are honouring a relationship that began many years ago," Ms Nabobo-Baba said.

She said the campus would improve access to higher education for students across the Northern Division.

Traditional ceremonies were also held to mark the occasion, symbolising cultural respect and the dedication of the land to education.

Ratu Wiliame urged the university to continue honouring both the land and its people.

"Let this be a place where knowledge serves our communities and future generations," he said.