Pursuing tertiary studies and graduating has always been the dream for Preetika Chand.
The mother of two chose to study at the Fiji National University (FNU) given its reputation of providing quality programmes and the convenience of studying closer to her home.
Chand previously worked as an office assistant at S. Nand Motor repairs in Nadi but later realised it was time to achieve her ambitions.
She enrolled in the Trade Diploma in Customs programme offered at FNU’s College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS) in 2019 and graduated earlier this year.
“I have always loved watching documentaries relating to border security and international trade, most of all I admire the uniform of the customs officers which led me to enrol in this programme,” stated Chand.
“There would not be any other ideal place for me to achieve this dream than at the Fiji National University. FNU has trained me well to venture into the administration, customs law and trade facilitation field and contribute to the national development policies,” mentioned the FNU graduate.
Chand said the Trade Diploma in Customs programme provided her with a deeper understanding of customs operations and the abilities required to handle customs clearance freight operations. “Being able to travel from home to and from the Namaka campus each day was a big help for me in managing family life and studying,” added the FNU graduate.
“One of the other best things about studying at FNU was the friendliness of the tutors who were always there to provide help and guidance.”
Chand expressed that graduating at the age of 34 has been a satisfying and overwhelming experience and her advice to others is “There is no age limit to studying and gaining qualifications. It enables a person to become independent in life.”
“The most supportive person in my life and the one who encouraged me to further my studies is my husband, Sachin Nand and I would like to thank him for his suggestions and guidance in various phases of my academic journey.”
“I also owe it to the Fiji National University, for making me more confident and enabling me to achieve my dream. I am enthusiastic about entering the next phase, the work-life and looking forward to a job opportunity,” mentioned the proud alumna.
Students completing or have completed Year 12 or 13 also have the opportunity to undergo studies in a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) course at FNU through the 5,000 Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) placements.
Offered through the University’s TVET Pasifika, these courses are Certificate III, Certificate IV and Trade Diploma level qualifications. Students eligible for TSLS-funded studies must have successfully completed Year 12 with a minimum mark of 200/400 or completed Level 1 and II studies from the Technical College of Fiji.
Prospective students can choose from a wide range of TVET courses offered by the University in various fields of study, including Engineering, Medical, Tourism and Hospitality, Entrepreneurship, Fashion and Design, Cooking and Patisserie, Carpentry, Construction, Graphic Arts and Design, Film and Television Production, Hairdressing, Automotive, Electrical and Electronics.
