The legacy of pioneering Adventist educator and leader Dr Nemani Tausere has been honoured with the naming of a lecture theatre at Fulton Adventist University.
The Dr Nemani Tausere Lecture Theatre was officially opened and dedicated at a special ceremony attended by church leaders, government representatives, educators and members of the Tausere family.
The event recognised the significant contribution of the late Dr Tausere to Adventist education in Fiji and throughout the Pacific. His influence on educational development, leadership and mission continues to be felt across the region.
The ceremony commenced with prayer led by Professor Lohi Matainaho, vice chancellor of Pacific Adventist University.
The official ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Fiji’s Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, accompanied by Pastor Charlie Jimmy, president of the Trans Pacific Union Mission, Pastor Epeli Saukuru, president of the Fiji Mission, and John Tausere, the son of Dr Tausere and manager of the production department at Adventist Media in Sydney.
Mr Radrodro acknowledged the longstanding contribution of Fulton Adventist University to national development. He thanked the institution for more than 120 years of service to education in Fiji and for its ongoing commitment to developing leaders and professionals who continue to serve both Fiji and the wider Pacific region.
Reflecting on his father’s life and ministry, Mr Tausere described his passion for Adventist education through three guiding principles.
“My father was passionate about people. He was passionate about the Pacific. And he always sought to build purpose in people’s lives,” he said.
Mr Tausere expressed hope that the new lecture theatre would continue to embody those ideals, serving as a place where students are inspired not only academically but also spiritually and professionally.
Fulton vice chancellor Professor Ronald Stone highlighted the enduring impact of Dr Tausere’s vision and leadership.
“Today, we celebrate a lecture theatre that will stand as a testimony for generations to come, reflecting Dr Nemani Tausere’s vision and dedication to Adventist education,” he said.
