Central Queensland University (CQU) will amalgamate its Pacific education services, with existing New Zealand operations set to expand from 1 March 2007, it was announced last week.

An estimated 350 students currently enrolled at CQU Fiji will continue studies at CQU either by Distance Education or transfer to other CQU locations including CQU Rockhampton or New Zealand. CQU will help facilitate transfers to other institutions in Fiji, such as the University of the South Pacific, for students staying in Fiji.

“CQU is committed to servicing our students and affording them every opportunity to complete their degree without interruption,” explained CQU Vice Chancellor and President John Rickard, announcing that CQU Fiji would wind-down activity by the end of February.

“The sustainability of CQU Fiji has been questionable for some time. International students are not choosing Fiji as a destination. While it’s no longer viable, we’re able to offer our students alternative choices,” added Professor Rickard.

CQU will still actively encourage and facilitate student mobility and exchange in the region from its larger and more modern facilities in New Zealand, a comprehensive campus offering ten CQU programs.

“Where there are obstacles, there are also opportunities to ensure that students – from Fiji or elsewhere – can have the benefit of an Australian university education. And we’re pleased to be able to do that,” said Professor Rickard.

CQU established its Fiji campus in 1998. Since then 631 students have graduated, mostly from Business and Information Technology programs. 43 students attended graduation ceremonies in November 2006.