Date: 28 Jul 2025
In a landmark event celebrating 45 years of Vanuatu’s independence, around 125 Ni-Vanuatu students, professionals, and families gathered at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Suva for the Press Klab titled “Vanuatu: 45 Years On.” This marked the first time the event was held outside Vanuatu.
Organised by the Vanuatu Broadcasting and Television Corporation (VBTC) and the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC), the Vanuatu High Commission, and the Vanuatu Students Association in Fiji, with support from the Balance of Power (BOP) program, the Press Klab took place yesterday as part of the lead-up to Vanuatu’s official Independence Day celebrations.
One of the main objectives of hosting this Press Klab outside of Vanuatu was to engage the large population of Ni-Vanuatu students currently pursuing tertiary education in Fiji. Many of these students are enrolled at institutions like the University of the South Pacific (USP) and Fiji National University (FNU). The event provided a timely platform for these students to connect with national issues and reflect on their roles in shaping the future of Vanuatu.
Moderated by award-winning journalist Netani Rika, the discussion featured a distinguished panel that included Mrs. Viranria Brown, Vanuatu High Commissioner to Fiji; Mrs. Cherol Ala, Former Director-General of the Prime Minister’s Office in Vanuatu; Mr. Benuel Lenge, Statistics Adviser at the Pacific Community (SPC) and Mr. Charles Sumbe, President of the Media Association of Vanuatu.
The panelists offered candid insights on governance, women’s leadership, policy direction, disaster resilience, and the role of media and data in shaping national interests. The session encouraged young Ni-Vanuatu students to think critically about the nation’s past and their future roles as leaders, emphasizing civic engagement and inclusive political participation.
The event was live streamed to ensure broader accessibility, allowing remote audiences, including students in Vanuatu, to engage in the conversation in real time.
The success of this Press Klab demonstrates a strong interest from the Vanuatu diaspora in fostering meaningful, issue-based national discussions.
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