Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro has introduced a Bill in Parliament to establish the Pacifica Communities University as a new university under an Act of Parliament.
Speaking in Parliament this afternoon, Radrodro said the proposed legislation seeks to formally establish the Pacifica Communities University (PCU), which will replace the existing Pacific Theological College that has operated for 65 years under a charitable trust structure.
“This Bill is important for two main reasons,” Radrodro told Parliament.
“Firstly, it establishes the Pacific Communities University to respond to the moral fragmentation of Fiji society and the region through its innovative programs based on indigenous knowledge and learning, and its faith and values-based education.”
He said the university would focus on strengthening ethical and moral values among young people and communities across the Pacific.
“Secondly, through this form of education, it helps our people, especially the younger generation, to build and strengthen the moral fabric and ethical values of our diverse communities,” he said.
Radrodro said the legislation would provide the university with formal legal status under Fiji’s higher education framework.
“This Bill will provide a robust, transparent and affordable statutory framework for the Pacifica Communities University,” he said.
The Education Minister said the institution would continue its long-standing role in promoting faith, spirituality and indigenous knowledge traditions throughout the Pacific region.
“Since 1961, the university retains its sphere of influence with regards to its faith and spiritual traditions,” he said.
He added that the institution’s mission was to equip future leaders with holistic education, ethical values and soft skills needed to contribute meaningfully to society and address modern challenges facing Pacific communities.
“Leaders with whole-of-life mission equipped with ethical and moral value education will support Pacific societies’ sustainable development plans,” Radrodro said.
The Minister said the Bill is consistent with Section 21 of the Higher Education Act 2008, which allows the Higher Education Commission to recommend the establishment of a university to the Minister for Education.
He said once the Bill is enacted, the university would become subject to the Higher Education Act 2008 and would need to formally apply for registration and financial grants through the Higher Education Commission.
