Port Vila, Vanuatu – Tuesday 17 March 2026: The National University of Vanuatu (NUV) and the Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration between higher education and the private sector to support skills development, graduate employability, and national economic growth.
The MoU was signed at NUV on Monday 16 March 2026 by Mr Jean-Pierre Nirua, Vice-Chancellor of NUV, and Antoine Boudier, President of VCCI.
The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between the two institutions to ensure that university training and professional education are closely aligned with the evolving needs of Vanuatu’s private sector. Through this partnership, NUV and VCCI will work together to expand internship and apprenticeship opportunities, support work-integrated learning, develop short professional training programmes, and promote lifelong learning for the current and future workforce of Vanuatu.
Under the agreement, NUV will engage with VCCI to ensure that its academic and professional programmes reflect industry needs, including leadership and employability skills. The University will also support applied research on workforce development and encourage student participation in national business events.
As an early area of collaboration, VCCI will provide input to NUV in the development of a Diploma in Accounting and Commerce, designed to respond directly to skills needs highlighted by the private sector and to better prepare graduates for careers in business, finance and administration.
VCCI will play a key role as a bridge between the University and private sector stakeholders across the sectors it represents. The organisation will encourage its member companies to host NUV students for internships and apprenticeships, contribute to curriculum discussions, and engage directly with students through seminars, guest lectures, and industry events.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Vice-Chancellor Jean-Pierre Nirua highlighted the importance of translating the agreement into concrete actions.
“This partnership represents an important step in strengthening the connection between our University and the private sector. However, what matters most now is turning this agreement into action. Our objective is to ensure that this collaboration leads to tangible opportunities for our students and meaningful contributions to the development of Vanuatu’s economy.”
VCCI President Antoine Boudier echoed this call for rapid and practical implementation.
“The private sector needs skilled, capable graduates who understand the realities of industry. This partnership must quickly translate into practical initiatives – internships, training opportunities and stronger dialogue between businesses and the University. By working together, we can create real change in the relationship between industry and higher education in Vanuatu.”
The MoU also opens the door to joint initiatives such as participation in national business events, collaboration on youth engagement programmes, and regional cooperation opportunities.
