Scholarship Initiative Signals Strategic Investment in Education

Fifteen promising students have been awarded scholarships under the newly established iTaukei Education Scholarship Programme, marking what Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka described as a significant step forward in investing in the future of iTaukei landowners and the nation as a whole.

The scholarships, funded by the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), were formally presented during a ceremony officiated by the Prime Minister, who highlighted the initiative as a deliberate and strategic investment in human capital development.

“This scholarship programme represents the next significant step in our journey. It reflects a clear understanding that sustainable prosperity requires not only the custodianship of land but also deliberate investment in human capital,” Prime Minister Rabuka said.

The programme has been designed to expand access to quality education and specialised skills training for iTaukei landowners, particularly those facing financial hardship. Beyond financial support, the initiative aims to strengthen households, uplift communities, and contribute meaningfully to Fiji’s long-term national development.

“This scholarship initiative is not merely financial assistance. By investing in education, we strengthen households, uplift communities, and contribute meaningfully to national development, especially in sectors where iTaukei participation remains limited and where national capacity is critical,” he added.

The 15 inaugural recipients will pursue studies in six key fields identified as critical to Fiji’s development: Aircraft Engineering, Biotechnology, Civil Engineering, Commercial Pilot Training, Land Surveying, and MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery).

According to the Prime Minister, these disciplines were carefully selected to align with national priorities and to cultivate high-calibre professionals in sectors essential to the country’s resilience — including infrastructure development, healthcare, aviation connectivity, and scientific advancement.

“While land is our foundation, education is our most enduring asset. It empowers individuals to innovate, to lead, and to safeguard the interests of their communities in a rapidly evolving world,” he said.

Addressing the scholarship recipients, Prime Minister Rabuka reminded them of the responsibility they now carry as representatives of their families and communities.

“You carry the sacrifices of your families and the aspirations of the communities you represent. You now become ambassadors of a great vision realised. Your journey from this day forward is not merely about personal accomplishment but about the collective advancement of our people and our nation.”

Among the recipients is fifth-year medical student Rebekah Salailagi Caucau, who is pursuing her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at the Fiji School of Medicine. She shared that her path through medical school has not been easy, particularly in her early years when her siblings worked to help pay her tuition.

“I am grateful to God for this opportunity to continue my studies. I was a private student, and my siblings all worked to support me. This scholarship will ease the financial burden on my family,” she said.

Ms Caucau said the scholarship has renewed her determination to complete her degree and serve her community, describing it as a blessing not only for herself but for her entire family.

“This scholarship is not just support for me but for my whole family. It motivates me to work harder and complete my degree so that I can give back to my community and contribute to improving healthcare services in Fiji.”