Oceania Institute of Technology expands with new campus, director

Expansion and a key leadership appointment signal growth in Fiji’s private tertiary education sector, particularly for the Oceania Institute of Technology (OIT).

This is true for the newly established private post-secondary provider, has confirmed plans to expand as it strengthens its growth strategy.

OIT is on track to open its second campus in Suva by mid-2026, extending its reach and improving access to quality tertiary education across Fiji, council chairperson, Sereana Kubuabola, said.

The institute’s first campus is based at Challenge Plaza in Namaka, Nadi.

OIT is fully recognised and registered with the Higher Education Commission for Fiji.

Praneel Chand has been appointed inaugural director, effective early this year.

Mr Chand brings extensive leadership experience and academic expertise to the role.

He joins OIT from Fiji National University, where he served as head of training for information technology.

He also served as acting director of the National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) for four months.

With 22 years in the education sector, Mr Chand has a track record in educational leadership, technological advancement and organisational growth.

He was instrumental in establishing the National Conference on Information Technology in 2019, now an annual event organised by the NTPC.

Mr Chand holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of the People, a Graduate Diploma in Management from the University of the Sunshine Coast, and a Bachelor of Science in Computing Science and Technology from the University of the South Pacific.

His qualifications also include an Advanced Diploma in IT Project Management from TAFE NSW Western Sydney Institute and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment from FIT College, New Zealand.

Ms Kubuabola said the council was confident Mr Chand’s background in training and educational administration would guide the institute’s next phase.

“His track record in curriculum development, staff mentorship and strategic planning aligns with our vision to be an innovator in skills development, including technical skills,” she said.

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