The Fiji Institute of Valuation and Estate Management hosted its 10th Annual Conference at the Pullman Resort & Spa at Wailoaloa Beach, Nadi on the 22nd and 23rd of November 2019. The theme for this year’s conference was ‘Evolving Property Dynamics for the Future’. The conference was sponsored by the School of Land Management and Development, USP along with Rolle Associates, Pacific Valuations and TLTB.
The conference generated good interest from relevant stakeholders including the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources, TLTB, Housing Authority of Fiji, FNPF, Fiji Roads Authority, Energy (Fiji) Limited, Ministry of Forestry, Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, BSP Life, HFC Bank and various private organisations. Altogether, 75 participants attended the conference plus VIP guests and speakers.
The conference commenced with the introduction of the Chief Guest, Hon Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, Mr Meleti Bainimarama, and an opening address by the President of the Institute highlighting the Institute’s major achievements over the year. This was followed by presentations by the TLTB and Ministry of Lands & Mineral Resources on their major projects in 2019.
Day two of the conference had presentations from VIP guests mainly Mr Willie Baleinabuli, Manager of Fiji Rugby Union on teamwork and leadership skills applied in the management of the Flying Fijians during their campaign at the Rugby World Cup 2019. This was followed by a presentation by Mr Amit Ahalawat, Regional Chief Technology Officer, Digicel Pacific on Role of IT in Smart City Development and how IT is transforming the office space.
Mr Eroni Batikawai, Assistant Lecturer at the School of Land Management and Development, USP presented on the uses of IT for property professionals.
The conference concluded with the Hon Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Forestry, Mr Pene Baleinabuli, challenging valuers to find a formula for ecosystem valuations that is fair to both landowners and investors by recognising the value of trees in the ecosystem.
The Fiji Institute of Valuation and Estate Management made a special recognition to the School of Land Management and Development, USP for coming on board as a sponsor. It recognised the role the School plays in capacity development. The Institute also acknowledged the School’s growing interest in engaging with the property industry for the mutual benefit of all stakeholders.
