The University of Fiji joins the nation in commemorating Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna Day, acknowledging the enduring contributions of one of Fiji’s most distinguished national figures mainly as a legacy for future leaders.
In a statement marking the day, University of Fiji Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem reflected on Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna’s lifelong dedication to public service and duty.
“There are some important lessons to be learnt from the legacy of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna, the most important of which, for present and future leadership, is selfless duty in the service of others”, she said.
Professor Shameem said that Ratu Sukuna was multi-skilled, with achievements that spanned across education, law, governance, and military service, including becoming the first iTaukei university graduate, serving in World War I despite the obstacles he faced, and, later, shaping governance and bureaucracy in colonial Fiji. She said Ratu Sukuna was a thinker who was both charismatic and humble.
She said it was undoubtedly his youthful experiences in Fiji that had shaped Ratu Sukuna which allowed him to find opportunities despite the hardships he faced during his overseas sojourns, including discrimination and impoverishment, judging by the articulate letters he wrote home.
The University of Fiji recognized the human values attributes of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna which resonates with the University’s own philosophy of education even now, despite the passage of time, Professor Shameem said.
She said the significance of Ratu Sukuna Day was a reminder to the University staff and students of the value of honest leadership in national life.
The University of Fiji and the Sri Sathya Sai Global Council Fiji Pte Ltd (SSSGC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance medical education and strengthen community health initiatives across Fiji and the Pacific.
The agreement, signed during the University’s International Health Conference, cements a growing partnership between academia and service that has already seen more than 17 University of Fiji students participate in SSSGC’s outreach programmes.
It now sets a formal framework for broader cooperation from clinical placements abroad to free medical camps at home. The MoU outlines a practical and values-based collaboration designed to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals through service and exposure to global best practices.
Under the agreement, SSSGC will support University of Fiji medical students and staff through:
Annual scholarships for final-year MBBS students to undertake immersive clinical training in Australia, New Zealand, or other internationally recognised centres of excellence.
Participation in SSSGC’s Annual Free Medical Clinics across Fiji, offering real-world medical experience in underserved communities.
Professional development webinars and seminars, both online and in-person, led by internationally respected healthcare professionals.
Tailored project-based collaborations designed to meet Fiji’s evolving healthcare priorities through joint planning and resource sharing.
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Fiji, Professor Shaista Shameem, described the MoU as more than a policy instrument but a platform for shared purpose.
“We are pleased to be finalizing the Memorandum of Understanding to further deepen our collaboration, opening new avenues for joint projects, community outreach, and shared growth. This partnership reflects our commitment to developing medical professionals who are not only skilled but also driven by service and compassion.”
She added that this partnership is not just about academic opportunities, it’s about instilling a deeper sense of purpose in our students.
“Through hands-on service, they will learn that medicine is not only a science but also an act of compassion.”
“Our students will not only gain international exposure but also return with a greater sense of duty to serve locally. This is how we build healthcare leaders who understand both the technical and human side of medicine.”
Mr. Anil Kumar Amin, National President of SSSGC Fiji, acknowledged the longstanding cooperation that has led to this formal agreement.
“It is an absolute honour to witness the signing of this inaugural collaboration. Our organization is grounded in the values of love and service, and this partnership allows us to nurture the next generation of medical professionals while continuing our humanitarian work across Fiji.”
“By investing in the next generation of doctors and health professionals, we’re investing in the future health of Fiji. These students will one day serve our communities and we are proud to walk this journey with them.”
“This partnership exemplifies our commitment to action. We don’t just believe in healthcare for all we act on it, alongside like-minded institutions such as the University of Fiji.”
Mr. Kamal Naidu, Special Programs Coordinator- Zone 3 countries (Australia, New Zealand & Fiji), based in Sydney, reflected on the long-term vision and impact of the partnership.
“This MoU is not merely a formal agreement, it is a shared commitment to nation-building. From medical camps to clinical placements and professional development, our programs aim to equip students with both knowledge and compassion. Together, we are building a sustainable and inclusive healthcare future for Fiji.”
With this MoU, the University of Fiji will advance its goal of providing value-based, high-quality training for medical and nursing professionals while ensuring that students are exposed to real-world challenges and solutions.
The agreement will remain in effect for an initial term of three years, with annual performance reviews and the option for a two-year extension. It also reflects a deep commitment from both institutions to empowering communities, expanding healthcare access, and shaping a resilient and responsive health workforce for the Pacific.
The University of Fiji has announced its plans to introduce a Master’s in Orthopedics, as part of its ongoing efforts to expand specialist medical training in the region.
The programme will be launched following necessary approvals from University Senate Committee and Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF).
The announcement was made by Pro Chancellor Pundit Bhuwan Dutt Arya Ratna during the official opening of the University’s International Health Conference, hosted by the Umanand Prasad School of Medicine and Health Sciences (UPSM).
“This programme is a significant addition to our academic offerings, reaffirming our commitment to addressing the growing demand for specialist care across Fiji and the Pacific,” said Pundit Bhuwan Dutt.
“It reflects our vision to not only train general practitioners, but also develop expertise in critical medical disciplines.”
The proposed Master’s in Orthopaedics will complement UPSM’s current programme offerings, which include the MBBS, Bachelor of Medical and Health Sciences, Bachelor of Nursing, and Bachelor of Public Health.
Since its establishment in 2007, the school has expanded its footprint beyond its main Saweni campus to Samabula and Ba, with graduates now serving in healthcare facilities across the nation.
The announcement was made during the opening ceremony of the International Health Conference, a milestone event for the University of Fiji and the broader Pacific medical community.
Held at the Saweni campus, the conference brings together researchers, academics, clinicians, and public health professionals from Fiji and overseas.
“This conference is a platform for collaboration and innovation,” said Pundit Bhuwan Dutt.
“It opens the doors to deeper research, stronger partnerships, and transformative health interventions that go beyond academic discussion and into real-world application.”
The two-day conference features a diverse programme of plenaries, technical sessions, and panel discussions, addressing both general and specialized areas of healthcare. Topics include health systems resilience, medical technology, regional disease burdens, and community health delivery.
In his keynote address, Pundit Bhuwan Dutt also reminded attendees of the importance of human values in medicine.
“Technical knowledge must be paired with compassion, fairness, and ethics. True healthcare transformation comes when professionals engage both the mind and the heart.”
He urged participants to engage fully and let the outcomes of the conference extend into policy, practice, and long-term partnerships.
The conference also pays tribute to the resilience of health workers across the Pacific, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The university envisions the event as the first of many international academic gatherings aimed at shaping the future of health in the region.
The University of Fiji’s Umanand Prasad School of Medicine and Health Sciences (UPSM) officially opened its inaugural International Health Conference today, marking a significant milestone for the institution and for Fiji’s medical and academic landscape.
The two-day event with the theme “Innovations and Equity in Healthcare,” brings together health professionals, researchers, policymakers, and students from across Fiji and the globe to exchange knowledge, address pressing health challenges, and build pathways for regional and global collaboration.
Delivering the keynote address, His Excellency the High Commissioner of India to Fiji Mr. Suneet Mehta congratulated the University for organizing a “historic and timely” conference, commending the strong participation from both local stakeholders and international delegates.
“The theme of this conference innovation and equity could not be more relevant,” the High Commissioner said.
“Health systems worldwide are under increasing pressure, and while innovation holds great promise, it must be guided by equity to ensure that no one is left behind.”
He emphasized the importance of placing people, not systems at the heart of healthcare reform and urged participants to focus on community-based solutions, early detection, health education, and prevention strategies.
He also encouraged multi-sectoral collaboration, noting that health outcomes are deeply linked to education, food systems, climate policy, and infrastructure.
The High Commissioner praised the University of Fiji for creating a meaningful platform for cross-learning, dialogue, and shared commitment to improving health outcomes, especially in the Pacific region.
“This conference is a powerful opportunity to share best practices, learn from one another, and co-create solutions that are culturally relevant and sustainable,” he noted.
“The University’s leadership in hosting this event reflects a growing commitment to global health dialogue from the Pacific.”
The International Health Conference will continue for the next two days featuring expert panels, research presentations, and workshops on critical topics including non-communicable diseases, health equity, digital health innovations, and primary care delivery.
In recognition of the World Press Freedom Day, the University of Fiji stands in solidarity with journalists, media institutions, and defenders of free expression around the world to affirm the essential role of a free and independent press in democratic societies.
The global theme for this year, “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” calls attention to the transformative influence of AI on journalism, newsroom operations, and the very fabric of press freedom. As technology evolves, so too do the challenges facing media professionals around the world including here in Fiji.
Media plays a vital role in holding governments accountable, thereby shaping the quality of governance and the daily lives of citizens. In Fiji, the rise of artificial intelligence has presented both opportunities and challenges. The unchecked spread of hate speech on social media platforms, incidents of cyberbullying, and online harassment remain pressing concerns. There are growing calls to strengthen legislative frameworks governing digital conduct, particularly the mandate of the Online Safety Commission of Fiji.
A free and independent media is essential to nurturing informed public discourse and safeguarding the principles enshrined in both the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Fiji’s 2013 Constitution. Following the repeal of the Media Act, Fiji’s media landscape is presumed to operate in a more open and democratic space. It is now more important than ever to ensure that news is reported freely, fairly, and without fear or favor. Ethical standards in journalism must be upheld consistently, and media owners and editors bear the responsibility of promoting fair, accurate, and balanced reporting.
Globally, journalists continue to face immense risks. In conflict zones and authoritarian regimes, media professionals endure intimidation, detention, violence and often pay the ultimate price with their lives. The day also stands as a solemn tribute to their courage and sacrifice.
In a proud moment for national media development, the University of Fiji graduated its first cohort of Journalism students in April 2025. Through a balanced curriculum combining theory with practical experience, the University has contributed to strengthening journalism standards in the country. The establishment of Vox Internet Radio Station, an in-house training facility, further equips students with essential radio reporting techniques.
As United Nations Secretary-General H.E. António Guterres aptly stated:
“Press freedom is the backbone of accountability, justice, equality and human rights.”
The University of Fiji reaffirms its commitment to media freedom and responsible journalism, and celebrates the ongoing resilience and role of the media in shaping a just and democratic society.
