Naiyaga Replaces Chand as Higher Education Commission Chair

The Minister for Education, Hon. Aseri Radrodro, has appointed Ms Rokobua Naiyaga as the new Chairperson of the Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF), replacing outgoing chair Mr Steve Chand.

The appointment was made on 17 February 2026 following consultations with the Prime Minister.

Ms Naiyaga brings more than five decades of experience in the education sector, with a background in national education governance, public sector reform, school leadership, and curriculum development.

The Ministry says her experience positions her to guide the Commission’s strategic direction and strengthen oversight of Fiji’s tertiary institutions.

In announcing the appointment, Minister Radrodro highlighted the critical role of the Higher Education Commission in ensuring quality, accountability, and continuous improvement across Fiji’s higher education system.

He said the Commission plays an important role in addressing systemic gaps and fostering collaboration among registered institutions for the benefit of students.

The Minister also expressed confidence that Ms Naiyaga’s leadership will help advance higher education standards and support a more responsive and future-focused tertiary sector.