The University of Fiji proudly joins the global community in marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations (UN), an institution that continues to shape a world founded on peace, human rights, and sustainable development.
United Nations Day, observed annually on 24 October, celebrates the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945, a milestone that reaffirmed humanity’s collective commitment to preventing war and promoting global cooperation.
As a higher education institution deeply rooted in the Pacific, The University of Fiji recognizes the United Nations as an enduring pillar of international solidarity.
The University of Fiji Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shaista Shameem notes that Fiji’s contributions to UN peacekeeping operations, climate diplomacy, disaster relief, gender equality, and human rights protection underscore its strong alignment with the UN’s mission.
‘In a world where the moral compass is sadly and hopelessly askew, the UN can show us the light at the end of the tunnel’, she said. ‘At times even that light appears dim but nations can stand together, at least on UN Day, and protect it from ever going out’. The University of Fiji stands at the forefront to ensure that the international legal standard at the base of the UN system retains its integrity over time and geographic space much as it’s so hard to do, Professor Shameem said.
She said that UniFiji further commends the Fijian Government’s initiative to establish a centralized UN House to host all UN agencies in the country. This development is expected to strengthen Fiji’s role as a regional hub for the Pacific, enabling more efficient coordination and collaboration among UN agencies working across diverse development priorities.
The University of Fiji also draws inspiration from the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, whose message for this year’s UN Day captures the enduring spirit of the organization.
“The United Nations is more than an institution. It is a living promise spanning borders, bridging continents, inspiring generations. For eighty years, we have worked to forge peace, tackle poverty and hunger, advance human rights, and build a more sustainable world together.”
Reflecting on this milestone, UniFiji reiterates its own commitment to advancing education, peace, equality, and sustainability, values that stand at the heart of both the United Nations and The University of Fiji’s mission to create a more just and resilient world.
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