(The late) Dr Dona Ruru

I thoroughly enjoyed my years of study at the University. I grew academically, spiritually, socially and culturally through the diverse student composition.

Full Name: Donasiano Kalou Ruru

Degree: PhD in Development Studies

Place of Birth: Lovoni Village, Ovalau, Lomaiviti province in the Fiji islands

Ethnicity: Fijian

Dona Ruru

In 1983 Dona graduated from Corpus Christi Teachers' Training College in Fiji with a Primary Teacher Certificate, and was posted at Vatukoula Convent School.

In 1991 he received a Fijian Affairs Scholarship to pursue his undergraduate studies from the University of the South Pacific.

Dona then completed a Masters in Development Administration and Business Administration at the Australian National University in Canberra and the University of the South Pacific.

In 2006 Dona was awarded an NZAID scholarship to pursue his Doctoral studies and completed his Doctoral degree in Development Studies in December 2010. His research interest focuses on development issues, and particularly on the effective delivery of Overseas Development Assistance.

Of his time at Victoria University of Wellington, Dona says "I thoroughly enjoyed my years of study at Vic. I had the opportunity to grow academically, spiritually, socially and culturally through the diverse student composition, which was enriching. I owe a lot to my PhD Supervisors, Professor John Overton and Dr Kabini Sanga."