The University of Otago and a Fijian Government agency have signed a landmark agreement opening the door to sponsored opportunities for Fijian students to study in Aotearoa New Zealand in fields critical to Fiji’s development.
Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed between the University and Fiji’s Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Services (TSLS) in Dunedin recently, new pathways will be established for Fijians to pursue academic programmes at Otago that directly align with Fiji’s national human capital priorities.
These programmes include Exercise, Sport & Nutrition Science; Aquaculture and Fisheries; Biotechnology; Microbiology; Geographic Information Systems; Software Engineering; Forensic Analytical Science; Rehabilitation and Medical Technology.
The formal signing of the MOU represents the first time Otago has entered an agreement with a Fijian government agency to directly support students to study in Dunedin.
Dean of the University’s School of Māori, Pacific and Indigenous Studies Professor Patrick Vakaoti says the partnership is a milestone in Pacific regional education cooperation.
“The agreement reflects the value the Fijian Government places on educational qualifications offered at Otago,” he says.
“It also demonstrates their trust in us, that Fijian students will be adequately supported with their pastoral and wellbeing needs via the Pacific Islands Centre and other related Student Support Services at Otago.”
A TSLS delegation visited Otago’s Dunedin campus for the MOU signing, led by Executive Chair Ro Teimumu Kepa, signalling a new chapter in regional collaboration between Fiji and Otago, and strengthening academic and cultural ties across the Pacific.
For Honourable Ro Teimumu Vuikaba Kepa the partnership is about creating opportunities that align with national development goals while nurturing global citizens who will return home ready to lead.
The MOU will remain in effect until September 2030, with an option to renew for a further five years.
