The Fiji National University (FNU) kicked off its three-day graduation ceremony on Tuesday at the Vodafone Arena, Suva, celebrating the academic achievements of 1,694 students across the College of Humanities, Education and Law.

With yesterday marking the second session and the final session set for today, the university has highlighted the significance of this milestone not just for the graduates, but for the nation’s development.

A key highlight from this year’s graduation is the notable rise in female graduates, with 918 women receiving qualifications a reflection of FNU’s continued commitment to gender equity and the empowerment of women in education.

Fiji National University, Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba applauded this progress during her address, emphasizing the resilience of female students who often overcome societal challenges to succeed.

“Ladies and gentlemen, today marks a total of 579 graduates. 579. Over the next three days, we will celebrate 1,694 graduates across three ceremonies. I am proud to share that 918 of these graduates are women, highlighting our continued commitment to gender parity at the national level”.

General Secretary for the Fiji Teachers Union, Paula Manumanunitoga also used the occasion to urge the graduates to step into the workforce with integrity and a sense of responsibility.

“The journey ahead may be filled with unexpected twists and turns, but with determination and the right mindset, you have the power to transform challenges into opportunities. You are the future of Fiji, an embodiment of hope and promise. In you resides the potential to uplift our communities benefit our economy and enrich our society as a whole”.

Among the graduates, stories of perseverance and personal growth were shared many balancing family, work, and studies.

“I’m feeling very happy especially it’s been a very hard journey. I’m actually proud of how long I’ve come and yeah, I was nervous at first but I’m very much happy and excited”.

Their experiences serve as encouragement to others who may be contemplating returning to school or beginning their own academic journey a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue education and reshape your future.

By Joeli Ragoneliwa