Port Vila, Vanuatu – Tuesday 26 May 2026: The National University of Vanuatu (NUV) proudly celebrated the graduation of 251 students on Friday 22 May 2026 at the Epauto Hall, marking a major milestone in the University’s academic journey and its continued contribution to national development.
The ceremony was officiated by His Excellency Mr Nikenike Vurobaravu, President of the Republic of Vanuatu, in his capacity as Chancellor, alongside the Speaker of Parliament, Hon Stephen Felix Dorrick, Deputy Prime Minister, Hon Johnny Koanapo Rasou, who gave the keynote address. The ceremony was attended by senior Parliament members, including the Leader of the opposition, Hon. Ishmael Kalsakau, heads of constitutional bodies, senior Government officials, director generals and directors, members of the diplomatic corps and development partners, representatives of the Vanuatu Council of Churches, representatives of the Chiefs, women and partner institutions, international university partners, the NUV community of staff and students, families, and guests.
In his address, NUV’s Vice-Chancellor, Mr Jean-Pierre Nirua, emphasised that graduates form part of the country’s young elites and represent the future leaders of Vanuatu and the Pacific, who will contribute to national progress and attaining global development goals.
“Today’s graduates are not only celebrating the completion of their studies, they are also stepping into their roles as the future leaders of Vanuatu and the Pacific. Through the NUV Alumni Network, they remain part of our University family for life, carrying forward knowledge, responsibility, and service to their communities”, Vice-Chancellor Nirua said.
The 2026 graduating cohort included students from NUV and partner universities, spanning a wide range of disciplines and programmes, including:
- School of Education (NUV) – Bachelor of Education (Primary Teaching); Bachelor of Education (Secondary Teaching) with specialisations in Biology & Earth Science, Mathematics & Physics, Biology & Chemistry, Language Second & History, and Language Second & Language Foreign; Certificate IV in Education (Early Childhood Care & Teaching)
- Climate Resilience and Humanitarian Action – Diploma in Climate Resilience & Humanitarian Action; Professional Micro-credentials in Climate Resilience & Humanitarian Action; Project & Programme Management
- Partner University Programmes – Bachelor of Environmental Sciences (James Cook University & University of New Caledonia); Bachelor of Tourism Management & Hospitality (University of New Caledonia); Master of Science in Economic and Social Sciences and Licence in Administration Économique et Sociale (Université Toulouse Capitole); and Doctorate conferral from the University of New Caledonia
The ceremony highlighted NUV’s strong partnerships with regional and international universities, reflecting its mission to deliver high-quality, relevant education while strengthening Vanuatu’s role in the Asia-Pacific higher education space. The University is expanding its programmes in education, science, climate resilience, environmental sciences, information technology, agriculture, maritime and fisheries studies, soon to meet the needs of the country.
NUV reaffirmed its commitment to shaping graduates who are not only job-ready but are also equipped to lead in governance, community development, innovation, and climate action.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Management, Hon. Johnny Koanapo Rasou, highlighted in his keynote address that since its establishment, six years ago, NUV has risen with strength and purpose despite extraordinary challenges – from the COVID-19 pandemic to destructive tropical cyclones, a devastating earthquake, and ongoing economic pressures.
He said, “Yet today, we stand together with pride to celebrate the achievements of our students, whose perseverance reflects the resilience and determination of our nation. To the graduates: remember that Vanuatu will need your knowledge, your leadership, and your commitment as we continue building a stronger and more resilient future for our country”.
He thanked the partner universities for their support. He said, “I also wish to warmly acknowledge the presence of our valued partner universities who have travelled all the way to Vanuatu to attend this important occasion: University of New Caledonia, James Cook University, Toulouse Capitole University, and University of Toulouse-Jean Jaurès. Your partnership and commitment continue to strengthen higher education opportunities for the people of Vanuatu”
The 2026 Graduation Ceremony stands as a testament to the University’s mission: to educate, empower, and inspire the next generation of leaders for Vanuatu and the Pacific region.
