07/08/2026
For 20-year-old Frances Nawaqavou, the opening of the Fiji National University's (FNU) Foundation Hub at the Labasa Campus, brings hope to students pursuing their education away from home.
A first-year student studying for a Diploma in Applied Fisheries at FNU's College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF), Frances is originally from Nukubalavu in Savusavu. She now lives with a relative in Bucalevu, Labasa, while working towards her educational goals.
Frances lost her mother at a young age and recently lost her foster father. Despite these hardships, she remains determined to build a brighter future through education.
She believes the Foundation Hub will provide valuable support to students facing challenges, while studying away from their families.
"I am very thankful to the FNU Foundation for opening the Hub here in Labasa. For students like me, who are away from home, it means we can access support when we need it most," she said.
Frances added that initiatives such as the Coffee Forward Initiative, the Veilomani Closet and the Food Pantry, will make a meaningful difference for many students.
"Food and clothing are important, especially for students living away from their families. Sometimes it can be difficult to meet our basic needs while focusing on our studies, so having this support available on campus is a blessing," Frances reiterated.
She added that the Foundation Hub is a reminder that, students in the North are supported and encouraged to succeed.
"I believe the Foundation Hub will help many students. It gives us hope and reminds us that there are people who care about our wellbeing and education," said Frances.
Frances also thanked the FNU Foundation for expanding its services to Labasa.
"I would like to thank the FNU Foundation and FNU for thinking about students in the North and bringing these opportunities closer to us."
"I hope students will make good use of the support available through the Foundation and continue working hard towards their goals," she added.
