Fiji Through the Eyes of Farjana Aktar from the University of Salford

On the 10th June, Farjana Aktar from the University of Salford joined Think Pacific on a mental health project in Fiji.

Funded by the university through the new Turing Scheme, this experience was a huge success at demonstrating the impact global mobility can have on both students and host communities.

In partnership with the Fiji Government, Ministry of Health and local partners, these projects have contributed to Fiji’s National Development Plan and the UN’s Sustainability Goals.

We caught up with Farjana Aktar to reflect on her time in Fiji and what the first ever mental health project was like.

“Going out abroad to Fiji was the best way I could get the experience I was looking for.” 

Global Mobility and the Turing Scheme

Launched in 2021, the Turing Scheme has replaced the Erasmus+ programme in providing funding for participants in UK universities, colleges, and schools, to go on international study and work placements.

The University of Salford successfully applied for Turing Scheme funding to help their students embark on a unique 4 week global, work-based programme in the Fiji Islands led by Think Pacific, in partnership with the Fijian Government and other local partners.

Throughout the project, participating students expanded their cultural fluency and global citizenship, as well as accessing Think Pacific’s influential partners at an international level.

Farjana’s Story

Farjana joined the first ever mental health project in Nayavutoka, Ra.

In the interview below, Farjana shares her experience of life in a Fijian village.

Want to learn more about our projects in Fiji?

Watch the video below or click here to explore our programmes.