SUVA, FIJI– Forty public sector professionals have graduated from the inaugural Executive Public Leadership Course at the Fiji National University (FNU), marking a significant milestone in leadership development for Fiji’s public service.
The graduates received their Postgraduate qualifications during the graduation ceremony held at the FNU Nasinu Campus yesterday.
The graduating cohort comprised 10 officers from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, eight from the Fiji Police Force, two from the Fiji Corrections Service, 10 from the Fiji National University, three from the Ministry of Immigration, two from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, three from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, one from the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar, one from the National Fire Authority, and two from the Nevada National Guard.
The intensive two-week programme was delivered through FNU’s Office of Learning and Teaching (OLT) and the College of Humanities, Education and Law (CHEL). It was made possible through the University’s partnership with the Nevada National Guard, the College of Southern Nevada and the United States Embassy in Fiji.
Chief Guest and Department Chair of Business Administration at the College of Southern Nevada, Professor Kevin Raiford, who also played a key role in delivering the programme, said the participants had been equipped with valuable knowledge and challenged to think differently, lead with purpose and embrace collaboration.
“As you move forward, remember that effective public leadership is built on service, accountability and a commitment to lifelong learning. The knowledge and skills gained over the past two weeks are only valuable if they are put into practice. I encourage each graduate to return to your organisation with the confidence to lead positive change and make a meaningful difference in the communities you serve,” Professor Raiford said.
FNU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said the graduation reflected the University’s commitment to developing leaders who serve with integrity, wisdom and purpose.
“Universities exist not only to confer qualifications, but to prepare people to think critically, lead ethically, and serve society,” Professor Nabobo-Baba said.
While congratulating the graduates, she also reminded them that as leaders they would be called upon to make difficult decisions, navigate uncertainty, solve complex challenges and serve their communities with fairness and compassion.
“Leadership is not about titles, rank, or authority. It is about service, integrity, accountability, and the ability to inspire others towards a common purpose. As graduates of this Executive Public Leadership Course, you now carry a greater responsibility to lead with humility, courage, and conviction,” she said.
“The lessons you have gained through this programme must not remain within these walls. They must be reflected in your daily actions, your decisions, and your commitment to public service.”
Graduate and Acting Superintendent of Police (Deputy Divisional Police Commander Central), Isireli Ravulolo Ligairi, said the graduating class had completed the programme with a shared commitment to becoming better leaders in service of the people.
“This course has reminded us that leadership is about character, integrity, humility, sound judgement, and the ability to inspire others through service. We have explored emotional intelligence, organisational change, collaborative problem-solving, influence, and strategic thinking – not merely as academic concepts but as practical tools that will guide us in addressing complex challenges facing our respective organisations.”
Graduate and Nevada National Guard, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Kolvet said the programme reinforced a simple yet powerful message that is “Leadership is influence, nothing less, nothing more.”
“Leadership is a calling. We have been called to lead, and we are answering that call. We owe it to those that will be assigned to us to be the leader they deserve, we owe it to those whose lives may count on our leadership abilities, we owe it to the future leaders of our organisation and communities.”
