Graduate numbers increase

As many as 1774 students graduated from The University of the South Pacific in Suva today. Picture: KOROI TADULALA

THE University of the South Pacific recorded a 5 per cent increase in the number of graduates from the Laucala campus this year after 986 students received their certificates, diplomas and degrees at the National Gymnasium in Suva today.

This morning’s ceremony was for the graduates from Faculty of Science, Technology and Environment (FSTE) and Faculty of Arts, Law and Education (FALE). Students from the Pacific TAFE graduated in the second session this afternoon while 788 students from the Faculty of Business and Economics (FBE) are expected to graduate in the third session at 9am tomorrow.

There was a feeling of joy and accomplishment across the arena as families, friends and colleagues cheered on the graduates who were all smiles at the podium after receiving their certificates from President Jioji Konrote.

USP vice-chancellor and president Professor Rajesh Chandra said the University had issued close to 60,000 qualifications since its establishment 50 years ago.

He said this was a testament of its foundational role in the tertiary education of their member countries.

“Of those graduating today, 345 are from the Faculty of Science, Technology and Environment, 300 or 17 per cent are from the Faculty of Arts, Law and Education and 341 are from the Pacific TAFE,” Prof Chandra said in his speech.

“Fifty-eight per cent of those graduating are women. Students from 28 countries are graduating today, including 16 non-member countries, testifying to the growing international profile and attraction of USP.”

Prof Chandra said the graduation ceremony this year would be held over two days and in three sessions, reflecting a consistent and significant increase in the number of graduates over the years.

Graduate Ratu Tevita Rarokolutu could not hold back tears of appreciation and gratitude as he dedicated his achievement to his parents, family, friends and mentors.

USP graduate gold medallist Ratu Tevita Rarokolutu receives a congratulatory kiss from mum Savaira Veisagai Rarokolutu at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva today. Picture: WANSOLWARA STAFF

Ratu Tevita graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and Graduate Certificate in Education. He also won two gold medals – FALE prize for the most outstanding graduate with a major in education, and the Xerox Business Centre prize for the most outstanding graduate with a major in history.

“When I walked through the gates of USP for the first time in 2014, the voices of my parents echoed in mind. They told me, ‘Go out there and make your village and vanua proud’. Being the eldest of four and having my dad, the solebreadwinner in the family earning slightly just above the poverty line, it was not easy for me.

“I wanted to look for friends I knew here when I first came but it was really hard. But I am thankful to USP, particularly FALE and the support services for their guidance. During one of my first lessons, my peer mentor told me to work hard to be the gold medallist for education.

“I didn’t know what a gold medallist was but I was somehow really inspired. That really drove me during my four years at USP. I worked hard to achieve not just one gold medal but two and I owe that to my support system – my parents, my friends, my family and my mentors at USP.

“My advice to youths is to never give up on your dream. All you need is to work hard and balance your life well,” he shared.

Reported by INOKE RABONU