Port Vila, Vanuatu – Friday 20 February 2026: The National University of Vanuatu (NUV) officially launched its 2026 Academic Year this morning during a ceremony held at the Epauto Adventist Multipurpose Centre.
The ceremony brought together students, lecturers, university staff, government officials, and partners in a spirit of unity and renewed commitment to higher education in Vanuatu. The programme featured presentations of 2026 NUV’s academic offerings on the main campus and the School of Education, including homegrown programs and those delivered in partnership with international universities. The event also reflected the Government’s strong and unwavering support for the University as a key pillar of national development.
During the last three weeks, NUV has enrolled over 760 students, with more than 60% being female students, reflecting the University’s continued progress toward expanding access to higher education and promoting gender inclusion across the country.
The Minister of Education and Training, Hon. Simil Johnson Youse, officially launched NUV’s 2026 academic year in the presence of the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Johnny Koanapo Rasou. In his remarks, the Minister underscored the Government’s strong backing of the University and its long-term vision.
Hon. Simil Johnson Youse said, “On behalf of the Government of Vanuatu, I reaffirm our strong and unwavering support to the National University of Vanuatu. Through the 2025 decision of the Council of Ministers and our commitment to invest 10 billion Vatu by 2030, this Government is determined to expand and strengthen NUV into a leading and innovative national institution that serves all provinces and meets the aspirations of our people”.
He wished all students, lecturers, and staff a successful and productive 2026 academic year. He said, “May this year be marked by dedication, excellence, and achievement as you contribute to the development of our nation.”
In 2025, the Council of Ministers adopted COM Decision No. 137 to strengthen NUV through the gradual integration of national post-school education and training providers, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to a unified, high-quality university system. This reform is backed by an ambitious Expansion Plan seeking 10 billion Vatu by 2030 to enhance infrastructure, introduce new programmes, and establish a Research Centre. The investment will expand campuses, modernise learning environments, strengthen research and innovation, serve all provinces, and mark Vanuatu’s 50th independence anniversary with confidence in its national institutions.
In his address, NUV’s Vice-Chancellor, Mr Jean-Pierre Nirua, reaffirmed the University’s vision and called on the entire academic community to uphold its values. He said, “NUV is committed to building a strong national university that promotes quality education, meaningful research, and regional and international partnerships. I encourage our lecturers to continue inspiring and mentoring with passion and integrity. To our students, you are the future leaders of Vanuatu – wear the values of this university with pride. Develop your networks, engage in research, embrace learning opportunities, and seek experiences that will shape you into responsible and capable leaders for our country.”
The ceremony concluded with a group photo session. NUV looks forward to a year of consolidation and growth, innovation, and academic excellence in 2026. NUV remains committed to providing quality, inclusive and relevant higher education for Vanuatu and the wider region.
