Head of State confers awards to 1100 graduands at USP, Laucala Campus

APIA, SAMOA – 06 OCTOBER 2022: The Head of State and Chancellor of the University of the South Pacific, Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaleto’a Sualauvi II conferred Certificates, Diplomas, Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate Degrees to over 1100 graduands at Laucala Campus in Suva this week.

The graduation was arranged in three sessions. Graduands came from the University’s various Schools of Agriculture, Geography, Oceans and Natural Resources, Business Management, Information Technology, Engineering, Technical and Further Education, Environment and Sustainable Development, Law and Social Science, Accounting and Finance, and Pacific Arts, Communication and Education. 64 percent of the graduating class were females.

The Head of State and Chancellor of the USP, Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi 11, Faamausili Leinafo Tuimalealiifano, the Deputy VC Professor Jijo Vanualailai and and Heads of Schools after the graduation.

The Vice Chancellor (VC) and President of the USP – Professor Pal Ahluwalia presented his report on the University virtually. In his report, the VC acknowledged the hard working graduands who had to endure the unprecedented challenges of studying in midst of the COVID 19 pandemic, unwavering support of parents and guardians, dedicated management staff, and Heads of Schools and staff of the University, in helping the students accomplished their academic aspirations.

The graduands were from seventeen (17) member countries of the University of the South Pacific, and eight (8) from non-member countries. It is an indication of how the University has continued to promote cultural diversity and partnerships.

Paying a courtesy call on the President of the Republic of Fiji – Ratu Williame Maimalili Katonivere at the State House – Suva.

The Head of State and delegation were received by the University’s Deputy Vice Chancellors and Senior Management Staff earlier in the week at Laucala Campus. After a brief meeting, they were taken on a tour of the University’s library, ICT Centre and the Oceania Centre and Art Gallery.

The Head of State also paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency the President of the Republic of Fiji – Ratu Williame Maivalili Katonivere. The two leaders reflected on the importance of education to the Pacific, and the continued relevance of strong cultural ties to the Pacific family.

The Head of State and party also had the opportunity to meet with Samoan students attending the University and the Fiji National University’s (FNU) School of Medicine.

A total of 61 Samoan students are currently studying towards various degrees at USP and the Fiji School of Medicine.

Some of the Samoan students at USP and FNU.