Source: University of Otago
The University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka 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 field’s 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 Te Tumu – 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.”
TSLS plays a crucial role in administering Fiji Government scholarships and is central to supporting the country’s vision of developing a knowledge-based economy.
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 TSLS delegation to Dunedin also included Selveen Deo (Head of Finance and Corporate Services), Marica Vereakula (Manager Legal), and Shivon Singh (Coordinator Scholarships, Higher Education).
They were welcomed with a mihi, an occasion that acknowledged shared indigenous values and the deepening relationship between Otago and its Pacific partners.
Following the ceremony, the delegation met with University leaders to discuss alignment between Otago’s academic programmes and Fiji’s national human capital priorities.
Otago Director International Jason Cushen says the agreement represents a deepening of Pacific partnerships that go beyond student numbers.
“Fiji has always been an important and valued partner for Otago, one in which student and staff mobility and research collaboration has resulted in positive benefits for all parties.
“Given this historical context we look forward to working closely with Fiji’s Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service to provide life changing opportunities for a new group of young Fijians.”
The visit also provided opportunities to explore Otago’s postgraduate programmes, including Masters and PhD pathways, and to discuss ways to strengthen Pacific-led research and innovation.
As Otago continues to implement its Pacific Strategic Framework, this partnership with TSLS reinforces the University’s commitment to Pacific success in higher education. The Framework serves to ensure that Pacific values and priorities are embedded in all areas of university life and this MOU reflects a tangible step in realising that vision, deepening Otago’s role as a university of choice for Pacific learners and communities.
Both parties are confident this collaboration will pave the way for a stronger Pacific presence at Otago – one that honours academic excellence, cultural connection, and shared aspirations.
The MOU will remain in effect until September 2030, with an option to renew for a further five years.
