Outstanding first-year students in Accounting and Economics and top-scoring Year 13 students in both these disciplines were recognised for their achievement during the School of Accounting, Finance and Education (SAFE) awards night.
Hosted at The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Laucala Campus in Suva, Fiji, in collaboration with the Fiji Institute of Chartered Accountants (FICA), the event highlighted the significance of Accounting and Economics in the economic development of the Pacific Islands.
Twenty SAFE students who completed their first year at USP in 2023 were awarded certificates for their excellent performance, while Melaia Naukau scooped the Head of the School’s Most Outstanding First-Year Student award.
The school also recognised (for the first time) the 2023 Year 13 highest scorer in Economics, awarded to Nihaal Vikash Prasad.
Speaking at the event, Mr Krishal Prasad, an Economist at the International Monetary Fund, shared some of his experiences as an alumni of USP and former staff of the School of Accounting (then), adding that “failure is only a stepping stone towards success”.
“Having participated in various international study opportunities, Mr Prasad realised that the Accounting, Finance and Economics courses offered at USP are nothing less than the education people received abroad in these fields.”
He stressed the importance and relevance of Accounting and Economics as the basis of economic progress.
“These two fields of study are critical not only for national economic progress but for individuals as well. He stressed that one must learn the principles of Accounting and Economics to help us make better financial decisions.”
While congratulating award recipients, the Acting Head of the School of Accounting, Finance and Economics, Dr Rup Singh, acknowledged the support of teachers, parents and guardians.
He stated, “The achievement of our students is not solitary – but reflects the support of teachers and parents who believe in the aspirations and dreams of students and thanked the mentors, tutors and lecturers who guide them to excel in school.”
At the end of the awards ceremony, FICA President Rajeshwar Singh said, “At FICA, we want to make sure your journey as an accounting professional is the best we can provide”.
He encouraged all graduates to become members of FICA to learn the real world of Accountancy.
