Higher education institutions in Fiji must move beyond being seen solely as providers of labour for the economy and instead focus on shaping critical thinkers and future nation-builders.
This is the message from the University of Fiji Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shaista Shameem at the inaugural Vice-Chancellor’s Forum hosted by the Higher Education Commission Fiji.
Professor Shameem described the role of a Vice-Chancellor as not only managerial, but also one of leadership, particularly at a time when universities are being called upon to respond to rapidly changing national and global demands.
She says universities must have the freedom to establish programmes and educate students in ways that encourage independent thinking and innovation.
She says academic freedom is even more important in democratic societies, adding that universities are not only teaching students how to do things, but also how to think.
Professor Shameem says the University of Fiji, as a private institution, has always maintained a philosophical approach to education, viewing it as an important tool for nation-building and the development of cultural capital.
She says education should not be seen only as a social service, but as a way of building the country’s cultural capital and strengthening economic productivity.
The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted challenges faced by the higher education sector following the COVID-19 pandemic, saying many students began questioning the value of long-term university education during the global crisis.
She says while resilience became a major focus during the pandemic years, UniFiji is now looking towards a new direction in its upcoming strategic plan.
Professor Shameem says a broader approach to education is needed, one that focuses on what the nation requires.
She also raised concerns over the growing migration of skilled workers from Fiji, particularly nurses, teachers and technical professionals, despite continued investment in education and training.
While discussing the recently released National Skills Gap Assessment Survey Report, she questioned how long Fiji would continue educating people for the overseas market.
Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro says the gathering came at a significant time for the higher education sector as universities worldwide faced increasing pressure to deliver quality teaching, innovation, relevant research and meaningful contributions to national development.
Radrodro emphasized the importance of the Higher Education Commission Act in strengthening governance, accountability, transparency and quality assurance across higher education institutions.
He also stressed the need for universities to align programmes with the National Qualifications Framework to improve graduate employability and maintain consistency in qualifications.
The inaugural Vice-Chancellor’s Forum brought together leaders and representatives from higher education institutions across Fiji to discuss governance, funding models, research priorities, employability, quality assurance and the future direction of higher education in the country.
