Work on the yet to be completed Fiji National University Naiyaca Campus in Labasa will resume next year and is expected to be completed by 2026.
Construction work on the multi-million-dollar project began in 2018, however, multiple stoppages caused a six-year delay on a Campus that carried hopes to bring better learning opportunities for the people of the Northern Division.
This week, FNU reaffirmed its commitment to seeing the Campus completed and operating by 2026.
Moving forward
In a statement to this newspaper, FNU Vice Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba acknowledged the difficulties the project encountered and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to complete the campus.
“We understand the significance of this project and the challenges it has faced,” said Prof Nabobo-Baba.
“However, our focus is now firmly on the future. Our goal is to create a campus that serves the people of the Northern Division with excellence and purpose.”
According to the university, after a comprehensive review, a phased development approach for the campus would be adopted and a reviewed overall project budget was carried out.
“The first phase of construction will focus on the essential facilities, such as classrooms, student amenities, and administrative spaces, with the intention of making the campus operational,” the FNU statement said.
“Subsequent phases will address additional infrastructure needs.
Search for funding partners
“FNU is currently in discussions with potential partners, including government agencies, private investors, and philanthropic organizations, to secure the necessary funding to complete the remaining phases.”
Not revealing the new budget for the project, Prof Nabobo-Baba said they would ensure that they stayed within the allocated funds.
“We are taking a balanced approach, focusing on quality, efficiency, and fiscal responsibility.
“Our aim is to provide a modern, functional space for learning while ensuring that we stay within budget.”
Prof Nabobo-Baba said the university was actively searching for funding partners who could step in to assist in the completion of the project.
She said the university was looking at both public and private sector partners as well as international organisations with an interest in education and regional development.
“While we have faced challenges, our commitment to realizing the full potential of Naiyaca has never been stronger.
“This campus is not just about bricks and mortar – it is about advancing educational access, fostering community development, and contributing to the growth of Fiji’s Northern Division.”
Promises
As the institution looks ahead to 2026, Prof Nabobo-Baba pledged that future funds pumped into the project would be handled transparently.
“The university assures the public that all funds to date have been used exclusively for campus development and that strict new project management and communication protocols are now in place to ensure efficient use of resources going forward.
“We are excited about what the future holds for the Naiyaca Campus,” said Professor Nabobo-Baba.
“This project will be a game-changer for Labasa and the wider Northern Division. We are committed to delivering a campus that will shape the educational opportunities of generations to come.”
The institution has worked out a plan to keep the public informed with regular updates on the progress of the campus development when funding is secured and construction resumes.
