Vanuatu student leaders in Fiji have become the first student organisation to partner with the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services in a specialised HIV Training of Trainers (TOT) programme.

This programme aims to strengtheni HIV and drug prevention awareness among young people.

The initiative, led by the Vanuatu Students Association, brings together ni-Vanuatu students across universities in Fiji to build peer-led health advocacy and education networks.

Vanuatu High Commissioner to Fiji, Her Excellency Viran Brown, says the programme reflects the importance of peer learning and community-based approaches to health education in the Pacific.

“As ni-Vanuatu, we have always learned from one another through storytelling, conversation, shared experiences, and community gatherings.”

She encouraged newly trained HIV Champions to share information within their student networks and said the High Commission will continue to support the implementation of campus action plans.

Dr Emali Druma from the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services said the collaboration is a first of its kind.

“Vanuatu is the first student organisation to partner with the Ministry of Health in Fiji, through the Sexual and Reproductive Health and HIV Unit, to conduct this type of training.”

She said the programme equips students with knowledge to better support HIV prevention efforts among their peers.

Health and wellbeing advocate Shirley Tokon also highlighted the importance of changing attitudes toward HIV awareness and stigma.

“If we continue with the same attitudes, misconceptions, stigma, and lack of awareness, we cannot expect different outcomes. Today’s training is about breaking that cycle.”

Participants in the training also reflected on challenges around access to sexual and reproductive health information, including stigma and limited outreach in some communities.

Fiji continues to record new HIV cases each month, particularly among people aged 15 to 24, while Vanuatu has recorded a total of 15 HIV cases to date.

Education Attaché at the Vanuatu High Commission in Suva, Mrs Serah Liki Vurobaravu, reaffirmed support for students’ wellbeing and success.

“My goal is to support students to stay focused on their studies, make positive life choices, and achieve their dreams. I look forward to seeing them return home as responsible graduates, ready to serve the people and nation of Vanuatu.”

The High Commission acknowledged the support of the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Rainbow Pride Foundation, and the Fiji Network for People Living with HIV in delivering the training.