Navy’s Batiniqila Graduates, Makes History
The training ensured that a young naval person was ready for subsequent phases of specialist training. She completed initial training to prescribed standards and gained an appreciation of the seagoing environment.
Friday 15 April 2022 | 12:39
Midshipman Esita Batiniqila (right) congratulated by her friend Amelia Finau at Dartmouth in the UK. Photo: Republic of Fiji Military Forces
Midshipman Esita Batiniqila has made history.
She became the first female from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division to graduate from the Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, United Kingdom.
The 23-year-old underwent the Royal Navy’s Initial Officer Training course which took a year and four months.
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The training ensured that a young naval person was ready for subsequent phases of specialist training. She completed initial training to prescribed standards and gained an appreciation of the seagoing environment.
Speaking from the UK, Midshipman Batiniqila said being the first Fijian female to graduate from the training was not easy as she had to move out of her comfort zone to make everyone proud.
“Being away from home, especially my family, did motivate me to study hard as the course was not easy,” she said.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Ponipate Tikomaimakogai also graduated from the college where he underwent an International Lieutenants Course for the past eight months.
Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division, Commodore Humphrey Tawake congratulated the two navy officers on a job well done.
He said the Fiji Navy was always on its feet looking for the best institution to further the education of its force.
“They will bring in new knowledge and a new operating environment to the Fiji Navy,” he said.
He added that the college was one of the top navy institutions in the world.
Midship Batiniqila will be flying back into the country next week.
Feedback: josefa.babitu@fijisun.com.fj
