Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has reminded newly-awarded scholarship recipients to remain focused on their studies and avoid drugs and other negative influences as they begin their academic journeys.
Speaking during the launch of the 2026 Scholarship Awards by the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), Mr Rabuka addressed the first 15 iTaukei students selected under the national education initiative.
“I urge you to not get distracted by peer pressure or get involved with drugs and alcohol,” he said.
He described the TLTB Education Scholarship Fund as a significant investment made possible through the collective support of landowners.
“This scholarship fund is an investment in our people, an investment in potential, and an investment in the long-term prosperity of iTaukei landowners.”
The PM encouraged recipients to remain committed to their goals and to remember the purpose behind their decision to pursue higher education.
The scholarship, supported by the iTaukei Wealth Fund, aims to provide structured and equitable access to higher education and specialised fields for iTaukei students from rural, maritime and urban communities.
It offers financial need-based, merit-based and field-specific assistance in priority sectors including engineering, healthcare, aviation, business, information technology, finance and land resource management.
Recipients will receive tuition support, mentorship and internship opportunities, and will be required to work in Fiji for three to five years after completing their studies.
Mr Rabuka acknowledged that chiefs and landowners of TLTB-managed lands had contributed a portion of their earnings to establish the program.
“I urge you all to use it well.”
