Fiji and the United Arab Emirates are looking to expand cooperation in education, with discussions covering school development, scholarships, teacher training, technology and inclusive education.

The areas of potential collaboration were discussed when Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro met with UAE Minister of State Dr. Noura Bint Mohammed Al Kaabi in Suva today.

Radrodro welcomed the UAE delegation and acknowledged the longstanding relationship between the two countries, while also recognising the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE.

The Minister thanked the UAE for its continued support towards Fiji’s education sector, including assistance with school development. Both sides discussed the progress of the current school project and preparations for its second phase.

Beyond infrastructure, the meeting explored opportunities for scholarships, professional development for teachers, student and teacher exchanges, artificial intelligence and technology, as well as inclusive and special education.

Radrodro highlighted the challenges faced by students who require additional learning support, particularly those studying in mainstream schools. He said there was a need to strengthen teachers’ ability to identify and respond to diverse learning needs at an early stage.

The Minister also raised challenges affecting rural, remote and maritime schools, including limited access to specialised teachers, infrastructure, reliable electricity and connectivity.

Fiji expressed interest in drawing on the UAE’s experience and identifying practical areas where the two countries can work together to address these challenges.

Both sides agreed on the importance of establishing a more structured framework for education cooperation and identifying priority areas for future engagement.

Fiji will submit its priority areas to the relevant UAE authorities for consideration.

Radrodro thanked Dr. Al Kaabi and the UAE delegation for their visit and for the country’s continued friendship and support for Fiji’s education sector.

The meeting was attended by UAE and Fiji diplomatic representatives, including UAE Non-Resident Ambassador to Fiji Rashed Al Qemzi and Fiji’s Ambassador to the UAE Siddiq Faizal Riyad Koya.