At The University of the South Pacific (USP), students are empowered to shape their futures through an enriching student experience, relevant education and real-world experience.
Over the years, USP graduates have exemplified how their education at UP has allowed them to graduate with the qualifications and skills needed to transform lives and communities. The dedicated academic staff also ensure that students are provided an equal learning platform.
Viviann Takala is one such student excelling in a field traditionally dominated by men, highlighting that talent and opportunity are found right here in the Pacific.
As a final-year Electrical Engineering student at The University of the South Pacific (USP), the 22-year-old’s journey is a testament to family inspiration and the power of seizing an unexpected opportunity.
Hailing from Kadavu and raised in Vanua Levu, Takala’s passion for problem-solving was ignited early through her parents – a computer and mathematics teacher mother and a mathematics and physics teacher father.
“I’ve always loved the challenge of solving problems with mathematics and physics,” she said. Takala shared that a pivotal moment in shaping her decision of attending USP was during a visit to the annual Open Day event on campus.
“The first time I came for Open Day, our student guide spoke so highly of the Engineering Department that I was completely drawn in by the courses on offer, especially Electrical and Electronic Engineering,” she shared.
“It felt like fate. That same day, I withdrew my application to another university and submitted one to USP’s School of Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Physics (STEMP). I think the real inspiration came from my dad, who had a strong interest in electricity. Growing up, I was always there helping him fix things around the house.”
“When I heard about electrical and electronic engineering, it just made sense. It started as something to just pass the time, but at the end of the day, I believe it was God’s plan.”
Although she initially faced hurdles, she has now earned her place in the lab working and learning alongside her peers.
Takala and her classmate, Krishal Kumar, recently demonstrated their work at the recent STEMP Projects Day at Laucala Campus.
Takala and Kumar’s project was focused around fractional-order scheme to control a quadrotor system. Using their custom quadrotor system, which is a type of drone, Takala and Kumar tried to apply the fractional calculus method to improve its performance.
“I had been friends with Krishal since the first year and we ended up having the same idea for a final year project last year, so we planned to join forces,” she added.
“Towards the end of last year, we started making plans. We both had an interest in drones, so we started talking to supervisors about building our project.”
“The project involved long hours of research and testing, but I am glad that this final leg is complete.”
For aspiring female engineers, Takala’s advice is clear and empowering. “Don’t let anyone stop you from pursuing your dreams. If you see it and you want to do it, there should be nothing stopping you,” she urged.
“The world is evolving, and people are finally accepting that females can perform and excel in this field just the same as others. It will be tough to balance everything, studies, grades and family, but with perseverance and a good support system, you can do it.”
Takala looks forward to a rewarding career in a field where she can continue to solve complex problems and set an example for future generations of women in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and physics.
