UniFiji expands global partnerships

The University of Fiji has strengthened its global academic footprint with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), alongside the launch of its Oceanic Centre for Advanced Thinking and Renaissance.

The milestone event, held during the university’s 21st anniversary celebrations, signals a step forward in international collaboration, innovation and intellectual leadership in the Pacific.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem said the partnership was based on shared values rather than status.

“We do not accept all approaches to memorandums of understanding. We scrutinise them closely to ensure the institution aligns with our human values and our vision for education,” she said.

Professor Shameem said that despite differences in scale, both institutions were founded to expand access to education.

“RMIT, like the University of Fiji, began with humble beginnings to address gaps in access to education. That shared foundation makes this partnership meaningful and not merely symbolic,” she said.

She said the collaboration also reflects a broader understanding of technology within a social and environmental context.

“Technology is not just a tool; it exists within a social and economic context. That perspective is central to how we approach this collaboration,” Professor Shameem said.

The MoU will allow collaboration in research, academic exchange, sustainable development and innovation across disciplines, including design, media, health and aviation management.

RMIT Dean of the School of Design Andrea Siodmok described the partnership as a shared journey inspired by Pacific identity and resilience.

“Just as the Drua represents a vessel built for the open ocean, this partnership is our shared vessel to navigate the complex challenges of our time,” Ms Siodmok said.

She said the collaboration is guided by a “Living University” model, which reimagines higher education as a dynamic system that integrates Indigenous knowledge and responds to global challenges.

“For Fiji and the wider Pacific, this model is not just theoretical; it is a necessity,” Ms Siodmok said.

The launch of the Oceanic Centre for Advanced Thinking and Renaissance reinforces the university’s focus on critical thinking, creativity and intellectual renewal in the region.

Professor Shameem said the centre would serve as a platform for engagement and impact.

“This is not a meaningless agreement. Our partnerships must work in practice. There must be an exchange of knowledge, skills and ideas that benefits both institutions and our communities,” she said.

Ms Siodmok said the collaboration places students and staff at its core.

“This partnership is for our students and staff. It is a platform for their ideas, leadership and their role in shaping a regenerative future,” she said.