The Vanuatu Mission marked a historic milestone as it witnessed the first cohort of students graduate with a Certificate IV in Theology from Fulton Adventist University College (FAUC).

The ceremony at the Epauto Centre in Port Vila on July 15 saw 29 students graduate, a significant breakthrough in Adventist Christian education within Vanuatu and the South Pacific region.

Among the graduates was Friete Jane Bong, the sole female in the group, whose journey into theology began years ago when she helped her husband recommit his life to God. Her passion for theological studies stemmed from her desire to continue assisting people in their spiritual journeys.

The event saw the presence of key FAUC officials, including Dr. Tuima Tabua, the deputy principal; Dr. Limoni Manu, head of the theology department; and Nellie Manuca, registrar, who traveled from Fiji to Port Vila to present to the Vanuatu Mission leaders and officiate the graduation.

Charlie Jimmy, Vanuatu Mission president, expressed his joy at this achievement, highlighting the breakthrough of bringing FAUC’s programs from Fiji to Vanuatu.

Dr. Manu presented the graduates, emphasizing the importance of this program in fostering spiritual growth and leadership in Vanuatu. The successful completion of this program paves the way for these graduates to pursue further studies, with the opportunity to enroll in the Diploma in Theology program starting January 2025, also to be offered in Port Vila.

The original article was published on the South Pacific Division news site, Adventist Record.