The International Maritime Organization’s Secretary General, Arsenio Dominguez, urged Fiji National University’s Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies to advance cleaner, sustainable marine transportation. He emphasized the importance of developing environmentally friendly ships and suggested starting with a market analysis of the shipping industry’s current needs. Dominguez offered consultancy services to assist in this initiative during his visit to the centre’s state-of-the-art facilities.
FNU plans to reintroduce shipbuilding courses, reviving a program from the late 1980s when Fiji produced ships at the Government Shipyard in Suva. This move aims to enhance local expertise and contribute to the region’s maritime capabilities.
PCMS Diploma in Nautical Science student, Lanieta Suliano, highlighted the cultural significance of maritime careers for Pacific islanders, stating that these professions honor their ancestors, who were exceptional navigators, and fulfill the aspirations of their families and nations. This perspective underscores the deep-rooted connection between the maritime industry and Pacific Island culture.
