The University of the South Pacific, at its 98th Council meeting on Monday 25 November 2024 in Rarotonga, Cook Islands appointed Mr Daniel Vafo’ou Fatiaki as the Visitor for a three-year term commencing 29 January 2025.
Mr Fatiaki is a seasoned legal professional with extensive experience in judicial leadership across the Pacific, spanning over forty (40) years and has served as Chief Justice of Fiji and Nauru, and served as a Justice in the Vanuatu Court of Appeal. His areas of expertise include constitutional law, human rights, and judicial reforms, making him a highly respected figure in Pacific jurisprudence.
Mr Fatiaki graduated from the University of Auckland, New Zealand with a Bachelor of Laws degree (1976). He was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor in New Zealand (1977) and Fiji (1979). His awards include: The Order of Vanuatu – Badge of Distinction (2019); Vanuatu Meritorious Service Medal (2012); Companion of the Order of Fiji (2004), and The Fiji Civil Service Medal (1995).
The University of the South Pacific is extremely fortunate and honored that such a renowned legal professional will serve as the Visitor of The University of the South Pacific.