Fiji ratified the Asia-Pacific Regional Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications in Higher Education (2011) on Wednesday 19 February 2020. As a signatory of the regional convention, the main goal of Fiji’s NIC is to be a one-stop-shop for higher education information in Fiji. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) oversees it. The NIC acts as a focal point for the dissemination of information and provision of advice to both local and international students on higher education opportunities in Fiji, higher education institutions (HEIs), programmes and courses available, and other relevant information falling under its ambit.

Fiji’s National Information Centre inter alia therefore:

1. captures education traditions, systems, and values of Fiji,
2. provides information on quality assurance and accreditation, and qualifications framework, and
3. guides both local and international students on higher education opportunities in Fiji.

Information available on the platform:

1. Description of the Fijian Education System
2. Detailed Description of the Fijian Higher Education System
3. Quality Assurance Systems for Higher Education Institutions as well as Accreditation and Programmes
4. The Framework for organising Higher Education Qualifications
5. Procedures for the Recognition of Foreign Qualifications

Section 31 [Chapter 2 – Bill of Rights] of the Constitution of the Republic of Fiji, 2013 enshrines the right to education:

“s(13)(1) Every person has the right to

(a) early childhood education;

(b) primary and secondary education; and

(c) further education.”

The Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts is responsible for building a knowledge-based society by ensuring that Fiji’s young people have equitable access to high-quality education at all levels.

The Fijian education system is broadly structured into:

1. School Education (ECCE, Primary, and Secondary Schools), and
2. Technical and Vocational Education and Training, and Higher Education.