Deputy Prime Minister Encourages FNU Graduates to Lead Fiji’s Future Through Skills, Innovation and Resilience
13 May 2026 | Suva – The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame R. Gavoka, today encouraged graduates of the Fiji National University (FNU) to become the next generation of leaders, innovators, and skilled professionals who will help shape Fiji’s future.
Speaking as Chief Guest at the FNU Graduation Ceremony for the College of Engineering and TVET, the National Training and Productivity Centre, and the Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies at the FMF Dome in Suva, the Deputy Prime Minister congratulated graduates for their perseverance, sacrifice, and commitment to achieving their qualifications.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the growing importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in supporting Fiji’s economic resilience and national development.
“Fiji’s future will be built by skilled professionals, engineers, technicians, seafarers, innovators, and problem-solvers capable of driving industry, strengthening infrastructure, and contributing meaningfully to national progress,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged the critical role played by Fiji National University in equipping students with practical and industry-relevant skills, while also recognising the contributions of parents, guardians, and families who supported graduates throughout their academic journey.
Addressing opportunities within the tourism, civil aviation, and maritime sectors, the Deputy Prime Minister noted that tourism remains Fiji’s largest economic driver, contributing approximately 40 percent of the nation’s GDP and supporting thousands of jobs across the country.
The Deputy Prime Minister further highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen Fiji’s aviation sector through the advancement of the Civil Aviation Bill 2026 and the implementation of the Civil Aviation Master Plan 2026–2031.
“Our tourism and aviation industries require technically skilled and professionally trained Fijians to lead these sectors into the future,” he said.
The Deputy Prime Minister also encouraged graduates to become positive role models within their communities, particularly as Fiji continues to confront growing social challenges such as drugs and substance abuse.
“Your education must not only prepare you for employment, but also strengthen your character, discipline, and sense of purpose,” the Deputy Prime Minister stated.
The ceremony celebrated graduates from a range of technical, vocational, engineering, and maritime disciplines, reflecting Fiji’s continued investment in skills development and workforce readiness.
The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation congratulates all graduates and wishes them success as they embark on the next chapter of their professional journey.
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