FNU opens Foundation Northern Hub in Labasa

Fiji National University (FNU) has officially opened its Foundation Northern Hub at the Naiyaca Campus in Labasa, creating more opportunities for students across the Northern Division.

Chief guest and permanent secretary for the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics Peni Sikivou said the opening was more than the launch of a new facility; it marked another step towards making higher education more accessible.

Mr Sikivou said the hub would help ensure capable young Fijians had opportunities to pursue further education regardless of where they lived or the financial challenges they faced.

"This is also an important milestone in our journey towards a more inclusive and equitable Fiji," he said.

He said national development was achieved through partnerships between Government, institutions, communities, businesses and development partners working together to create opportunities for people.

Mr Sikivou said the transfer of FNU to the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics earlier this year reflected the Government's commitment to placing education, skills development, research and innovation at the centre of Fiji's long-term development agenda.

He said investing in education was an investment in human capital, creating opportunities for individuals, families, businesses and the nation.

FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said the opening marked a significant milestone for the university.

She said the Foundation Northern Hub represented more than a new building, reflecting the university's vision that education should be accessible to young people regardless of their background.

"We celebrate the generosity of the Vanua, the strength of our partnerships and the belief that investing in education is investing in the future of our people," Ms Nabobo-Baba said.

She thanked everyone who had worked to make the project possible.

Mr Sikivou said Vanua Levu had significant potential in agriculture, tourism, entrepreneurship and emerging industries, but unlocking that potential required continued investment in people and education.

He congratulated FNU and all partners involved in establishing the Foundation Northern Hub, saying it would continue to create opportunities and transform lives across the Northern Division.