USP shapes Pacific futures at Open Day event

USP Journalism students (left) share their experiences with students from Jai Narayan College in Suva. Picture: WANSOLWARA

By ASHWETA RAJ

The University of the South Pacific welcomed thousands of potential students during its Open Day event at Laucala campus in Suva yesterday, showcasing an array of opportunities that will enhance the student learning experience and shape Pacific futures through its internationally-accredited programmes.

Students from Ovalau, Savusavu and the Western Division spent the day learning about the different programmes, certification and state-of-the-art facilities at the region’s premier regional university.

Queen Victoria School student Ilisoni Nahou said the experience was overwhelming and expressed gratitude to USP staff members for their assistance and advice.

“I learned a lot of things at the Open Day. Staff at broadened my mind about my career path and choices, especially with the journalism programme. The staff gave inspirational guidance on my career path,” said the Year 11 student.

“I’ve dreamt of becoming a journalist since I was 7. I want to let the people know that as a journalist, you can make a change and stand for the truth.”

Year 13 student, Shaista Ali, from Sigatoka Methodist College was impressed with the facilities on campus.

“It’s been a really educational day, I’ve learned some really great experiences from all the faculties of USP and I really hope to be here next year.”

Minister for Education Rosy Akbar, who officially opened the Open Day, said USP played a critical role in creating opportunities and spaces to realise the ambitions of the Pacific.

“USP now has an Innovation Hub and Co-working Space that will allow students, academics, researchers, experts, entrepreneurs and social innovators from across the region to share ideas, network and to work together and collaborate on projects,” Ms Akbar said.

She urged students to use the opportunity to learn about the university and make the right career choice.

USP vice-chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia said the University strived to be ethical and accountable, which strengthened skills, innovation and respect for diversity.

“We are a values-led university which fosters excellence and creativity. We are all about supporting our people. As the premier regional university, we will continue to evolve so that we provide the latest curriculum and student experience that allows you to have the greatest opportunity to succeed. This is what ‘Shaping Pacific Futures’ entails,” Prof Ahluwalia said.

“We believe that the knowledge, skills and values that students will develop while studying at USP will help them become leaders within our communities well into the future.”

As many as 7800 students from a record 95 schools participated in the USP Open Day.

*Ashweta Raj is a final-year journalism student at USP. She is also the deputy editor for the USP Journalism Programme’s student training print and online publications, Wansolwara.