aniket, Author at The University of Fiji

May 27

University of Fiji Calls for Stronger Biodiversity Conservation on International Day for Biological Diversity

As we celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity, the University of Fiji urged communities, governments, and institutions to continue working together to protect biodiversity and strengthen conservation efforts for future generations.

This year’s theme, “Acting locally for global change,” highlights the importance of restoring ecosystems, protecting natural resources, and strengthening the connection between people and nature.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem said biodiversity conservation was essential for the future of Fiji, the Pacific region, and the world.

“Like the benefits of diversity in every human condition, the environment, similarly, is enriched by biodiversity not only to protect but also to promote and, in many cases, especially where damage is caused by carelessness or ignorance, to restore”.

Head of the Department of Science and Associate Professor, Dr Ramendra Prasad, said biodiversity remained one of the most important foundations of life and sustainable development, particularly for Pacific Island nations such as Fiji.

“Biodiversity is closely connected to our environment, economy, food security, health, and cultural identity. The Pacific region is recognised globally for its rich and unique biodiversity, and it is our responsibility to ensure that these ecosystems are protected for future generations,” Dr Prasad said.

Dr Prasad said increasing human activities such as habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, invasive species, and overexploitation of natural resources continued to threaten ecosystems worldwide.

He said Fiji had continued to demonstrate leadership in biodiversity conservation through community-driven initiatives, environmental policies, and sustainable ecosystem management programmes.

“Fiji’s efforts in marine protected areas, mangrove restoration, blue carbon initiatives, ecosystem rehabilitation, and biodiversity policy development are positive examples of how local action can contribute towards global environmental change,” he said.

He added that education and research played a critical role in strengthening biodiversity conservation efforts and raising awareness among younger generations.

“At the University of Fiji, we continue to integrate biodiversity and conservation studies into our academic programmes to help students understand the relationship between biodiversity, climate resilience, culture, and sustainable development,” he said.

The University of Fiji’s Department of Science currently offers “Biodiversity and Conservation” courses within several programmes as part of its commitment to environmental education and sustainability.

The University also acknowledges Fiji’s ongoing work in strengthening national biodiversity strategies, community-based conservation programmes, and collaborative partnerships involving government agencies, civil society organisations, regional institutions, and local communities.

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May 18

University of Fiji Unveils Leonidas Memorial During Girmit Day Commemoration

The University of Fiji today unveiled a replica of the historic Leonidas during its Girmit Day commemoration, honouring the sacrifices and resilience of the Girmitiyas whose legacy continues to shape modern Fiji.

The memorial was unveiled by Chief Guest Ravneel Singh, a University of Fiji Council member. The replica ship, measuring approximately two meters in length, about 700 to 800 centimeters in width and 1.3 meters in height, symbolizes the historic journey of the 498 indentured labourers who departed from Calcutta on 3 March 1879 and arrived in Levuka on 14 May 1879.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem said the unveiling of the memorial served as an important reminder of the courage, perseverance and sacrifices of the Girmitiyas whose contributions continue to shape Fiji today.

“For every Fijian the day means different things. For us at Saweni Campus it reflected a voyage to a new educational experience. The symbol of Leonidas in our front yard at UniFiji is a symbol of the journey to Fiji, like that of Homer’s Odyssey. Leonidas was full of brave men and women embarking on a journey of surprise. And, indeed, it was a pretty big surprise’ Professor Shameem said.

Executive Director Human Resources Ashneel Singh said the theme of the 147th Girmit Day, “From Roots to Wings, Carrying the Girmit Flame Forward,” reminds Fijians of the extraordinary sacrifices and resilience of the Girmitiyas who arrived in Fiji with hope, courage and determination.

He said despite facing exploitation, displacement and hardship, the Girmitiyas laid the foundations for future generations through perseverance, unity and their belief in the transformative power of education and hard work.

Singh added that today’s youth represent the “wings” of those roots and must carry forward the Girmit flame with wisdom, humanity and purpose in a world shaped by artificial intelligence, digital transformation and global challenges.

He emphasised the role of universities in preserving history while empowering future generations with knowledge, innovation, leadership and social responsibility.

Chief Guest Mr Ravneel Singh reflected on the difficult journey faced by the Girmitiyas and acknowledged their contribution towards the social, cultural and economic development of Fiji.

“Despite the hardships they endured, the Girmitiyas showed remarkable resilience, building temples, mosques, schools and communities that laid the foundation for future generations,’’ he said.

Mr Singh added the legacy of the Girmitiyas continued to live on through the values of perseverance, cultural diversity and hard work that remain deeply embedded within Fiji’s society.

“Girmit Day is more than a remembrance of history, it is a powerful moment in our national journey to reflect on the sacrifices and resilience of the Girmitiyas who helped shape the Fiji we know today,’’ he said.

Acting President of the University of Fiji Students Association, Rodney Vakaloloma acknowledged the audience and expressed appreciation for everyone present at the event, noting the significance of the cultural celebration and the student-led initiative.

Rodney further emphasised that the exhibition and launch formed part of a wider effort to encourage students to engage with history in meaningful and creative ways. He encouraged participants to reflect on the stories behind the artworks and appreciate the deeper message of resilience and remembrance, particularly in relation to the legacy of the Girmitiyas.

The replica of the Leonidas was constructed by University of Fiji staff member Krishna Naidu, whose creativity and craftsmanship brought the historic vessel to life. Working quietly behind the scenes, Naidu transformed recycled and discarded materials into a detailed model that stands as a powerful symbol of endurance and remembrance. His contribution reflects both innovation and a deep respect for history, showing how meaningful storytelling can emerge through creativity and resourcefulness.

Speaking on the project, Krishna said the model was completed in about a day and a half, with each piece of discarded material coming together to form a symbol of endurance and struggle. He said the work was not just about building a structure, but about honouring the resilience of the Girmitiyas and ensuring their story is remembered through tangible creative expression.

The University of Fiji reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting Fiji’s history and cultural heritage through education, awareness and community engagement while encouraging students to continue honouring the legacy and sacrifices of the Girmitiyas.

May 18

Emerging from the Shadows: Hefrani Barnes’ First Solo Exhibition ‘Emergent’ Brings Pacific Art into the Light

SUVA, Fiji – On the evening of 14 May 2026, the University of Fiji’s Suva Central Campus hosted Emergent, the first solo exhibition of young local Fijian artist Hefrani Barnes. The event served as both a cultural milestone and a platform for urgent social commentary, expressed through black sand, tapa, and vivid colour. The exhibition’s title, derived from the Latin emergere-to bring forth, to bring to light-reflects Barnes’ personal and artistic journey.

Living with epilepsy, the artist has produced twenty works that address climate disasters, fuel crises, bodily autonomy, and regional conflict. “Her storytelling stood out to me,” said Letila Mitchell, former director of the Fiji Arts Council, founder of the Pacific Arts Alliance, and chief guest of the evening. “It wasn’t just art meant to pretty up someone’s wall. Each of her pieces was a conversation about a real issue.” Mitchell noted the significance of the moment for a young artist from Fiji, where few practitioners exist in the contemporary arts space. “It’s a very hard career to undertake,” she added. “But we carry knowledge and stories from one generation to the next.” Barnes’ mother, Maureen Penjueli, spoke of the personal cost behind the collection. “She suffers from epilepsy, and she has delivered this entire twenty-plus collection through blood, sweat and tears,” Penjueli said. “This is a very important moment for her and her career.” She also called on parents to support children pursuing creative paths. “The arts doesn’t get much support in Fiji through our schooling system. People tend to look down at arts as not a pathway for a career.

But for children with deep love and passion, parents must be there to journey with them.” Ilana Burness, Campus Coordinator for the University of Fiji’s Suva Central Campus, explained the institution’s role in hosting the exhibition. “Art allows people to question, to reimagine, and to create meaning beyond traditional academic frameworks,” she said. “University art spaces can become cultural incubators. They create visibility for local artists outside of commercial galleries and build a professional arts ecosystem.” Artist-in-residence Mason Lee also acknowledged the University’s support for local artists and said creative talent in Fiji often goes unrecognised. “University of Fiji has changed that,” Lee said. “The support and belief they have given me has created a space where artists can lead and showcase their work.” Lee added that art remains deeply connected to culture, identity and storytelling. “Culture, tradition and identity are influenced by art,” he said. “Creation is art and it mirrors society in various forms.” The exhibition was funded by the Pacific Island Feminists Alliance for Climate Justice (PIFa4CJ) in partnership with the University of Fiji. Barnes’ work deliberately juxtaposes everyday materials-black sand from Wailoaloa Beach in Nadi, coconut husk, bark-with culturally significant items such as tapa, kuta, and ‘apei mats. The exhibition notes ask: “What is of common value to all? Justice, hope, love, and a duty of care for the living and non-living.” Hon. Lynda Tabuya, Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change, attended the exhibition and described a personal connection to the artist. “I’ve known Hefrani since she was born,” Tabuya said. “For UniFiji to bring her into the space of academia shows that academia is not just limited to books and articles. It is also the expression of art-non-verbal, pictorial, and vital.” Tabuya was particularly struck by the thematic range of the works. “She covered the fuel crisis, evacuations during climate disasters, her own ethnicity, and how to recycle our own fabric, natural sinews, tapa, and mats,” she said. “And the colours capture who we Fijians are. We are happy people, and we need to reflect that.” The Minister further challenged the arts to reclaim digital spaces. “There is so much darkness on social media-cyberbullying, negativity. We need to bring beauty and colour back into that dark space.” Barnes, though unable to attend in person, shared her perspective through the program.

When asked about her inspirations, she stated: “Faith, nature, human emotions, awareness, culture and tradition. These guide my path as an artist.” On the challenges facing young Fijian artists, she responded simply: “Lack of support to be recognised.” Her advice to students was direct: “Think twice. Or if you’re bold enough, take up the role and make it count.” The evening’s program, led by Master of Ceremonies Lawrence Singh, included a welcome address, keynote remarks by Ilana Burness, and a tribute from Letila Mitchell on female perspectives in radical and experimental art forms. As Mitchell concluded: “Art carries our identity. It’s a positive way of showing who we are without discriminating against others. It connects cultures together.” On a warm evening in Suva, Hefrani Barnes’ Emergent did exactly that-bringing forth, into the light, what had long been submerged.

Apr 30

University of Fiji Celebrates World Jazz Day with 24-Hour Vox Radio Marathon

The University of Fiji started its International Jazz Day celebration at 8 am today with the classic ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ by Frank Sinatra and then continued with other jazz classics for 24 hours jazzathon. The jazzathon was hosted by the University’s Vox Radio with Station Manager Lawrence Singh leading the studio team. Live hosts were Professor Shaista Shameem and the University’s Music Director Sailasa Tora, formerly of Fiji’s well known band Black Rose.

Interspersed with the music were interviews with prominent Fijian musicians, such as Laisa Vulakoro, Ken Janson, Tom Mawi, and Eni Kumar, our music national icons and treasures. All said their music life began with and was heavily influenced by the jazz greats.

Vice Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem said that the UNESCO Director General had sent the University an encouraging message of support since International Jazz Day was designated by UNESCO as a vehicle of education overcoming boundaries across the world.

The Vox Radio station had dedicated the day to international jazz since jazz music was universal and all music traditions had adapted it for their own audiences. Thus musicians in India, Arabia, Japan, Latin America, and just about every country had jazz musicians who improvised with jazz to suit their own audiences, Professor Shameem said. The Vox Studio played the entire repertoire of jazz sounds over the 24 hour period with the hosts addressing the history of jazz.

She said that jazz is important for Fiji too as local musicians had taken the opportunity to incorporate jazz rhythms into our own unique music style, she said.

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Apr 27

The University of Fiji will celebrate International Jazz Day with 24-Hour Vox Populi Radio Marathon

The University of Fiji will join the global celebration of World Jazz Day on 30 April 2026 with a special 24-hour jazz marathon on its campus radio station, Vox Populi, highlighting the unifying power of music and the importance of cultural expression in education.

Fiji’s well-known musicians appearing during the 24 hour event are Laisa Vulakoro, Ken Jensen, Tom Mawi, Eni Kumar and Sailasa Tora, among other jazz artists. The musicians will discuss the importance of jazz music to their own careers.

International Jazz Day was designated by UNESCO in 2011 to recognize jazz as a force for peace, intercultural dialogue and cooperation among people across the world. On 30th April every year, jazz musicians celebrate the role of jazz in promoting mutual understanding, diversity, respect for human rights and freedom of expression.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem will host the 24-hour marathon event with the University’s Music Director Sailasa Tora and Vox Station Manager, Lawrence Singh, both established artists and music producers in their own right.

“Jazz music arose on the slave plantations, emerging from the musical traditions of enslaved Africans in the American South, fusing African rhythms, work songs, and spirituals with European harmonic structures. Developed as a means of survival and expression under oppression, these forms evolved into blues and ragtime, ultimately merging in New Orleans to create jazz”, she said. “Jazz is more

than music, it is about protest in a way that kept the scrutiny of rebellion under cover, at the same time sending the stark message of painful experiences but also hope and a renaissance”.

Professor Shameem said that UNESCO’s International Jazz Day shows the strong link between the message of jazz music and education. The University felt that this link should encourage all educational institutions in Fiji to use jazz music as a vehicle for positive change in the national interest. Hence the University had invited leading musicians in Fiji to help celebrate the day in honour of jazz musicians past and present and to encourage young musicians to appreciate jazz for its capacity to influence societal transformation for the good of all, she said.

Professor Shameem noted that the University had recently launched its own music album as part of its 21st anniversary celebrations, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to the arts, creativity and cultural development as part of holistic education offered at the University of Fiji. The album was released through Vox Radio and Global Digital platforms.

To mark International Jazz Day, Vox Radio will feature a full 24 hours of jazz programming, starting 8 am Thursday 30th April, alongside live interviews with Professor Shameem, Sailasa Tora and prominent Fiji musicians, showcasing local talent and celebrating the influence of jazz in Fiji.

Listeners can tune in and listen live on:
https://onlineradiobox.com/fj/thevoxpopuliunifijicampus/