The Fiji National University (FNU) states it has been providing food and essential supplies to all students staying in hostel accommodation since the lockdown announcement by Government nearly a month ago.
The FNU confirmed this in a statement responding to a report quoting the National Federation Party as saying the institution needed to provide an explanation as to why more than 180 students stranded at Lautoka’s Natabua campus were not provided food.
“The university has a complete list of all students residing in its hostels and is in regular communication with them through staff on the ground and through the FNU Students’ Association,” the FNU stated.
“The university has been maintaining regular communication with students, through emails and social media, on all issues, including access to food and essential supplies.
“FNU provided free food to all students during the lockdown period.
All students in hostel accommodation who are unable, within government guidelines, to access essential supplies will continue to be looked after by the university.”
The institution also noted that students in hostel accommodation who were able, within government guidelines, to access food and other essential services within the community were expected to do so.
It added that the provision of meals to students in the Natabua hostels ceased after the resumption of bus services and the reopening of shops in Lautoka after May 18.
“However, for students who may be facing financial difficulties and cannot purchase food and other essential items, the university continues to cater for their needs.
“FNU has a duty of care to all its students and has prioritised student support during the pandemic to ensure that students are well taken care of and remain safe.”
