Held under the theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”, the initiative brought together CAFF staff and students, Nature Fiji and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) to establish a food forest that will provide nutritious food, create a hands-on learning environment and promote environmental stewardship for generations to come.
Chief guest and ACIAR Regional Manager for the Pacific and Papua New Guinea, Ms Mai Alagcan, described the initiative as a powerful symbol of sustainability and compassion.
“Today is not only about planting trees; it is about planting ideas, fostering relationships, and cultivating hope. It is about recognising that every small action we take can lead to meaningful change. Protecting our environment is a collective responsibility that requires us all to participate — from governments and organisations to communities and individuals.”
Dean of the College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Dr Kaliova Ravuiwasa, said the Food Forest Living Laboratory demonstrates how higher education can create meaningful and lasting impact beyond the classroom.
“A healthy environment is the foundation of every thriving community. Through this initiative, we are connecting education with real-world action by creating a living ecosystem where our students can apply their knowledge while serving the community. At the same time, we are helping to provide nutritious food, a safe and enriching learning environment, and a sustainable future for the children of Dilkusha Home. This is the kind of impact we want our graduates to champion wherever they go.”
Associate Professor of Forestry and Seminar Coordinator, Dr Shipra Shah, said the initiative reflects FNU’s commitment to experiential learning and collaborative environmental action.
“The Food Forest Living Laboratory will become a bridge between forestry education and community service. Through practical activities involving planting, observing, monitoring, and learning from the environment itself, our students will gain valuable real-world experience.
This initiative will empower them to become future environmental leaders who recognize that forestry is not only about managing forests, but also about caring for people, ecosystems, and the future of our planet. By partnering with organisations that share our vision, we will nurture a generation that understands sustainable development begins with collective action.”
Matron of Dilkusha Home, Deaconess Luse Rarawabogi, expressed her gratitude to FNU and its partners for bringing the initiative to the Home.
“This Food Forest is a gift that will continue to grow alongside our children. The trees will provide fresh food, shade and a healthier environment, while teaching our children the importance of caring for nature. More importantly, it gives them hope, responsibility and the opportunity to learn that even the smallest seed can create a lasting legacy.”
Building on the success of the initiative, CAFF aspires to expand the Food Forest Living Laboratory to children’s homes and similar care institutions across Fiji. The University will work closely with Government agencies, development partners, the private sector and community stakeholders to secure the support needed to replicate the initiative, ensuring that more vulnerable communities benefit from sustainable food production, environmental education and greener, healthier spaces.
ACIAR Regional Manager Pacific and Papua New Guinea, Ms Mai Alagcan with staff and students of FNU and Dilkusha Home plant trees
CAFF Associate Professor Forestry and Seminar Coordinator, Dr Shipra Shah explained the background on World Environment Day
CAFF Dean, Dr Kaliova Ravuiwasa shared his remarks at the World Environment Day Celebration
Chief Guest and Regional Manager Pacific and Papua New Guinea for Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), Ms Mai Alagcan delivered her address
Dilkusha Home Matron, Deaconess Luse Rarawabogi addressed the guests at the World Environment Day Celebration
