Category: News & Events

The University of Fiji has achieved the highest institutional Share among Fiji-based institutions in the internationally recognised Nature Index, highlighting the University’s growing contribution to high-quality global research.

The Nature Index tracks research published in 178 peer-selected, high-quality journals across the natural, health, applied and social sciences. It measures institutional performance using indicators that assess both publication output and research contribution.

According to the latest Nature Index data for Fiji, the University of Fiji recorded the highest institutional Share, a metric that reflects an institution’s proportional contribution to published research. Unlike publication counts alone, the Share metric measures the depth of an institution’s involvement in the research process.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem said the achievement was a significant milestone for the University and reflected its commitment to research excellence despite operating within a small island developing state context.

“We are extremely overwhelmed by this news and proud of being awarded such international recognition. We are aware that Universities are established for research-based teaching and our research can now be recognized for helping to develop knowledge for the public good.”

The achievement reflects the University’s continued commitment to strengthening its research culture and expanding its contribution to scientific knowledge at both regional and international levels.

Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Science, Dr Ramendra Prasad, described the recognition as a significant milestone for the University and the School of Science and Technology.

“Though the Nature Index database tracks institutional and country-level research output across narrow fields spanning the natural, health, applied, and social sciences, it considers articles published in 178 peer-selected, high-quality journals. This indeed is fantastic news for the Science Department and SOST,” Dr Prasad said.

He said the recognition reflects the collective efforts of staff and researchers and affirms the University’s emergence as a research-intensive institution with a growing influence within the global scientific community.

Dr Prasad noted that the publication contributing to the University’s Nature Index standing emanated from a collaboration between KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden and the Science Department.

He also acknowledged the authors of the publication, Associate Professor Ramendra Prasad, Ms Ayesha Reddy and Ms Dhrishna Charan, for their marvellous contributions.

The University’s performance in the Nature Index demonstrates the increasing impact of its research activities and reinforces its position as an emerging contributor to scientific knowledge within Fiji, the Pacific region and beyond.

As the University continues to strengthen its research capacity, it remains committed to fostering innovation, supporting academic excellence and building international collaborations that contribute to national, regional and global development.

The University of Fiji is calling for increased scholarship allocations for Mathematics and Physics Education programmes, warning that the growing shortage of specialist teachers in these critical subjects poses a significant challenge to the country’s education system and future workforce development.

The recommendation comes as the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) prepares to review and develop scholarship allocations for 2027 following the recent National Budget announcement.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem said the shortage of qualified Mathematics and Physics teachers requires urgent attention and long-term investment.

“National leaders need to find specific ways to encourage students to take up what are seen as difficult subjects and the University’s analysis shows that we need to provide incentives for Maths and Physics learning. There is no better incentive than scholarships.”

The University notes that Mathematics and Physics remain fundamental to national development, underpinning fields such as engineering, medicine, information technology, science and innovation. Ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified teachers in these disciplines is therefore essential for Fiji’s future growth.

The recommendation follows an analysis prepared by University of Fiji Mathematics Adviser, Ms Ayesha Reddy, who highlighted the continuing shortage of Mathematics and Physics teachers and the need for stronger incentives to encourage students to enter the profession.

Ms Reddy noted that teacher migration continues to place pressure on schools throughout the country, contributing to shortages in specialist subject areas. She said this often results in reduced student interest and participation in Mathematics and Physics, creating a cycle that further limits the number of graduates entering the teaching profession.

According to the analysis, Fiji has approximately 181 secondary schools and more than 74,000 secondary school students, yet concerns remain about the availability of specialist Mathematics and Physics teachers. Recent reports have also highlighted the significant number of teachers leaving the country in recent years.

Ms Reddy’s review of the 2026 TSLS Scholarship Policies Handbook found that under the Scholarships for High Achievers Local Scheme, only 35 scholarships are allocated to Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science teaching programmes out of 700 awards available. Under the Scholarships for Higher Education with Minimum Cut-Off Mark Scheme, only 140 awards are allocated to these programmes out of 3,000 scholarships.

She argues that increasing scholarship allocations for Mathematics and Physics Education would encourage more students to pursue teaching careers and help address the ongoing shortage of specialist teachers in secondary schools.

The University further notes that while the 2026–2027 National Budget highlights the expansion of scholarships for high-demand fields such as nursing, medicine and technical skills, there is no specific mention of Mathematics and Physics Education despite longstanding concerns regarding teacher shortages in these areas.

The University of Fiji therefore encourages TSLS, the Ministry of Education and other relevant stakeholders to consider increasing scholarship allocations for Mathematics and Physics Education programmes as part of the 2027 scholarship framework.

 

By Avitesh Ram (16/6/2026)

SUVA, Fiji – Creativity, storytelling and community voices took centre stage at the University of Fiji’s Suva Central Campus on Tuesday evening as second-year Journalism and
Media Studies (JMS) students premiered their documentary productions as part of their major
course assessment.

The documentary screening, held at 6pm, featured six original productions created by JMS201 Documentary students. The documentaries formed a significant component of the students’ final assessment, accounting for 60 percent of their course grade. The event provided students with an opportunity to present months of research, filming and editing work before lecturers, university staff, industry stakeholders, family members and fellow students. Throughout the production process, students received guidance and mentorship from lecturer Josefa Mainavolau and Mr Hurstel Yee. The documentaries screened included A Life of a Florist by Milika Rabulu, Petals of Perseverance by Sereima Adi, Our Modern Tongue by Joseph Balolo, Disconnect to
Reconnect by Eseta Yavuvata, Life Made from Scratch by Ramisese Saunivalu and A
Fading Craft by Kelera Verenasau.

Speaking during the event, JMS Documentary Lecturer Josefa Mainavolau said the project was designed to provide students with practical experience in visual storytelling while exploring issues of social, cultural and community significance. “This documentary project was designed to give students practical experience in storytelling through visual media. The objective was to allow students to identify issues of social, cultural, environmental or community significance and present them in an engaging and informative manner,” he said. Mr Mainavolau said documentary filmmaking was a vital part of journalism and media education because it combines research, interviewing, scriptwriting, camera work, editing and ethical reporting.

“We wanted students to develop strong research skills, critical thinking, teamwork, communication abilities and technical production skills. Most importantly, we wanted them to understand how powerful storytelling can be in raising awareness and inspiring social change,” he said.

University of Fiji Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem highlighted the importance of filmmaking skills in modern media education. “All media students need to know how to make films. This course teaches them the techniques,” Professor Shameem said. She encouraged future students to embrace creativity and innovation in their storytelling. “Use your imagination and creativity,” she advised. University of Fiji Suva Central Campus Coordinator Ilana Burness said the screening allowed students to demonstrate their documentary-making abilities while engaging with media professionals and stakeholders. “These events give students a chance to display their documentary-making skills while presenting to lecturers, university staff and industry stakeholders. It allows them to interact with people in the media industry and receive constructive feedback,” Ms Burness said. She urged students to be courageous in delivering important messages through their work.

“Be bold in your messages. Ask the relevant questions and do not be afraid to take risks when presenting key messages through your filming,” she said.

Among the student filmmakers, Milika Rabulu’s documentary A Life of a Florist explored the lives and struggles of flower vendors often overlooked in everyday society. “People walk past florists in the market every day, but after doing this documentary, I discovered the stories and struggles behind the flower arrangements they create and sell,” Rabulu said. Sereima Adi’s documentary Petals of Perseverance focused on a flower seller’s journey and determination to support her family. “The message I learned from doing my documentary is to keep pushing whatever you believe in and never give up,” she said. Meanwhile, Joseph Balolo’s documentary Our Modern Tongue highlighted the importance of preserving the iTaukei language and cultural identity amid social change. “As Fiji becomes more modernised, some traditional words used by our elders are no longer common among young people. I wanted to encourage the younger generation to preserve our culture and identity,” Balolo said.

The screening concluded with positive feedback from attendees, who praised the students’ dedication, creativity and commitment to telling meaningful stories from their communities. Mr Mainavolau said he was proud of the quality of work presented and hoped the documentaries would inspire audiences to think critically about the issues explored. “Documentary filmmaking has the ability to spark discussion, promote understanding and motivate positive action within communities,” he said. The documentary evening marked another milestone in the University of Fiji’s commitment to developing future journalists, filmmakers and media professionals through hands-on learning experiences that give voice to stories that matter.

The University of Fiji commemorated World Environment Day 2026 by planting indigenous and ecologically significant tree species across its Saweni, Suva and Levuka campuses, reaffirming its commitment to climate action, environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

Guided by this year’s World Environment Day theme, “Climate Action”, and campaign slogan, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”, the initiative was organised by the School of Science and Technology to promote environmental responsibility and strengthen climate resilience within the University community.

The tree planting programme was conducted simultaneously across all three University campuses. At the Saweni Campus, Vesi (Intsia bijuga) and Christmas Tree (Delonix regia) saplings were planted, while the Suva Campus planted Kaudamu (Mysristica Spp) trees. At the Levuka Campus, Baka (Ficus species) saplings were planted. These species were selected for their ecological, cultural and environmental significance and their ability to support biodiversity conservation and climate resilience in Fiji.

Speaking during the event, Chief Guest Mr. Elimi Rokoduru, Divisional Planning Officer West, commended the University for taking proactive steps towards environmental sustainability.

“Today’s tree planting activity goes beyond beautifying our campuses. It represents a tangible investment in environmental conservation, climate resilience and sustainable development. The saplings planted today may appear small, but over time they will provide substantial environmental benefits and serve as living symbols of our commitment to sustainability,” he said.

Mr. Rokoduru highlighted the growing environmental challenges faced by Fiji and the wider Pacific region, including climate change, sea-level rise, coastal erosion and biodiversity loss, and emphasised the important role educational institutions play in promoting environmental awareness and action.

Executive Director Human Resources, Mr. Ashneel Singh, said World Environment Day serves as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to protect and preserve the natural environment.
“Environmental stewardship cannot be confined to a single day on the calendar. The true measure of our commitment lies not in the speeches we deliver, but in the actions, we take every day. Sustainability must become part of our institutional culture and be reflected in how we manage resources, reduce waste, conserve energy and engage with our communities,” said Mr. Singh.

He added that universities have a crucial role in developing environmentally responsible graduates and advancing research and innovation that address environmental challenges facing Fiji, the Pacific and the wider world.

Head of the Department of Science, Dr. Ramendra Sharma, said the initiative demonstrates the University’s commitment to transforming environmental awareness into meaningful action.

“Guided by this year’s theme, this tree planting initiative reflects our commitment to sustainability, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. By planting indigenous and ecologically significant tree species across our campuses, we are investing in a greener future while contributing to carbon sequestration, ecosystem restoration and environmental education,” said Dr. Sharma.

He added that universities play a critical role in preparing future leaders to address complex environmental challenges through education, research and community engagement.

The initiative aligns with the University’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on climate action, life on land and sustainable communities. As the trees mature, they will contribute to carbon sequestration, biodiversity restoration, improved campus green spaces and environmental sustainability.

The University of Fiji continues to strengthen its commitment to environmental stewardship through its academic offerings, including the Bachelor of Environmental Science programme and postgraduate studies in Environmental Science, Energy and Environment. These programmes equip students with the knowledge and skills required to address environmental challenges and contribute towards building resilient and sustainable island communities.

As the University community celebrated World Environment Day 2026, participants were reminded that meaningful environmental change begins with individual and collective action. The trees planted across the three campuses will serve as lasting symbols of hope, resilience and the shared responsibility of protecting Fiji’s natural environment for future generations.

In making submissions to the Law Reform Commission on the Mining Act 1965, the University of Fiji said that state sovereignty over natural resources was an international legal principle that had been adopted in Fiji by way of both the 1997 and 2013 Constitutions. In Fiji this meant state sovereignty over minerals.Mining Act 

The international legal principle of state sovereignty over all natural resources was enshrined in the UN Declaration of Permanent Sovereignty over Natural Resources and had been approved by the UN General Assembly in its Resolution 1803. It was reflected both in section 186 of the 1997 Constitution and section 30 of the 2013 Constitution.

The Vice Chancellor, Professor Shaista Shameem said that the foundational principle of the Declaration was that the state had sovereignty over all the natural assets, including any minerals found within the jurisdiction of the state. The state had the responsibility to manage these resources in the interest of national development and the well-being of the people. In Fiji, where those natural resources were minerals, section 30 of the 2013 Constitution, which is identical to section 186 of the 1997 Constitution, obligated the state to fairly share any royalties it earned through extraction of the minerals with the customary or freehold owners of any land or water where the minerals were found.

Professor Shameem said that, constitutionally, the proportion in which any royalties are shared is based on a number of factors, namely, any benefits of extraction received or may be received by the owner; the risk of environmental damage; any cost of repairing or compensating for environmental damage that will be funded by the state; the cost to the state of administering exploration or exploitation rights, and any contribution to the general revenue of the state made by the person granted exploration or exploitation rights.

Specifically for environmental compensation, the cost of implementing the Environment Management Act 2005 enacted during the term of the Qarase Government, as amended by the 2025 Act, served as the blueprint for reparation in the national interest for mining activities, she said. “The Act covers activities where environment damage can occur due to mineral extraction and establishes a range of agencies for monitoring extraction activities such as a Council, Tribunal and Units as well as a Register”. Managing just this aspect of state responsibility for its sovereignty over mineral extraction would be a significant cost to public revenue and the question is whether the current fraction of royalties going to the state allows adequate environmental protection and longer term benefits for the next generations, particularly in relation to climate crisis, she said. The current distribution of 20% royalties to the state may not permit sufficient and robust protection of Fiji’s environment so that future generations can benefit.

Professor Shameem said that the UN Declaration on Permanent Sovereignty over Natural Resources was a decolonization commitment linked to the right to development of newly independent nations such as Fiji. The Declaration empowered all new states to use their natural resources, including minerals found within their territorial jurisdiction, for the benefit of all its citizens and for future generations. While the land and areas of the sea may be subject to either customary or freehold ownership, the minerals found and extracted in any state territory belonged to the state which exercised its responsibility on behalf of everyone.  Whatever earned by the state as its share of royalties had to be enough for that state to be able to afford to exercise its responsibility as a public and inter-generational duty.

Professor Shameem said the new Mining Act should also include provisions on deep sea and seabed mining, as well as remove the extent of discretionary power vested only in certain public officials, introduce stronger enforcement provisions, and modernise the regulatory framework to incorporate changes in mining practices in the 21st century including in health and safety.

She said that the 20th and 21st centuries had witnessed massive changes in the mining sector, with technology, safety and environment issues at the forefront of civil society concern and any legislation pertaining specifically to the sector had to ensure not only compliance with the Constitution of Fiji but also with international jurisprudence on state responsibility to protect.

1965 University of Fiji Submissions Final