The University of the South Pacific continues to provide quality education that aligns with the aspirations of the youth of the Pacific, said the Prime Minister of Samoa, Tuila’epa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi.
He made the comment when he officially opened the 82nd meeting of the USP Council in Samoa today.
Prime Minister Tuilaepa said that even with the sprouting of national institutions, USP has become the first choice for those seeking higher education for better opportunities.
“Many of the Pacific countries including Samoa are benefitting from the returning graduates of USP who have assumed roles of leadership and are helping towards shaping the future of our countries,” he added.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the success of the collaboration between the 12 Pacific countries that jointly own USP, highlighting that the University continues to be recognised as the prime example of practical regionalism at its best.
He further emphasised the University’s investment in technological advancements and in the use of the internet and other forms of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to bridge the distance between its regional campuses in order to provide quality tertiary education.
“The connection of high speed broadband in a number of countries will strengthen the collaboration and the relationship that had been fostered and built on between USP and the countries that it serves,” he stated.
Prime Minister Tuilaepa added that one of the ways USP can contribute towards the shaping of Pacific Regionalism Framework is through intellectual dialogue with people who are actively engaged in re-defining the way the Framework should work.
Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Council, Mr Winston Thompson, while welcoming the Prime Minister, said that Samoa has been a very strong supporter of the University since its establishment in 1968.
“I want to extend our sincere appreciation to Samoa for letting us host the Council meeting here. Samoa also has one of the main campuses of the University,” Mr Thompson said.
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Rajesh Chandra thanked the Prime Minister of Samoa for his strong support towards the University as a crucial institution valued by the Pacific leaders.
“Samoa was a foundation member of USP, and it remains one of its strongest members despite the presence of its national university,” he added.
Professor Chandra reassured the Prime Minister of Samoa as well as the Council Members of the outstanding progress made by USP into becoming a confident university that looks to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2018.
“I wish to assure you that the University has made remarkable progress: its enrollment has increased; finances are in good order; quality has improved; its reputation continues to rise; its support from governments and development partners is excellent,” Professor Chandra said.
The USP Council is the highest decision-making body of the University, and meets twice a year to discuss the affairs of the University .The two-day meeting will end on 18 May 2016.