Speaker of Parliament Filimone Jitoko has been formally installed as chancellor of the University of Fiji.
In his first official address as chancellor during the university’s graduation ceremony at the Saweni campus this week, Mr Jitoko confirmed his commitment to execute his duties in accordance with the university’s Act.
Mr Jitoko pledged to serve with fairness, wisdom, and impartiality to promote academic excellence and support the university’s research and community service goals.
“The University of Fiji is not just a place of learning; it is a vital hub of knowledge, generating future leaders who will navigate the great ocean we call Pasifika,” he said.
“Your degree is not an endpoint, it is the commencement of your preliminary point of service to this country, the Pacific, and beyond.”
Vice-chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem welcomed Mr Jitoko to his new role.
“Our new chancellor is no stranger to us all as the current Honourable Speaker of Parliament and a former judge,” she said.
“Justice Filimoni Jitoko has many years of judicial practice and public service under his belt.”
Prof Shameem said the university community is fortunate to have someone of his calibre as its head.
“While yours, by convention, Sir this is a titular role, I hope that you will, nevertheless, find the time to visit the university as often as your time allows and participate in our various activities and functions.
“Our human values philosophy seems to get thrown out of the window when the rugby and soccer challenges are on, and so, chancellor, I thank you in advance for relieving me of that burden.”
