Disability Resource Centre

Disability resource centre

The Disability Resource Centre (DRC) was established in March 2013 to support students and staff with disabilities at The University of the South Pacific (USP). We collaborate with faculties, departments, and external partners to ensure a fully inclusive and accessible environment where you can thrive and reach your full potential.

Our Commitment

USP’s inclusive program is dedicated to creating a barrier-free learning and working environment for students and staff across our 12 member countries. Through our Disability Action Plan, we continuously improve accessibility, promote inclusivity, and ensure equal opportunities for all.

“Educating All. Bridging the Gap. Empowering Lives.”

How USP Supports Students with Disabilities

USP is committed to ensuring equal learning opportunities for all students. Our Disability Resource Centre (DRC) provides:

Personalized Support – Tailored assistance to help you succeed academically.
Assistive Technology & Software – Access to tools like Braille Sense U2, JAWS, NVDA, and Read & Write Gold.
Test Accommodations – Extra time, special venues, laptop use, embossing, font adjustments, and sign language interpretation.
Volunteer Buddy Support – Peer support to help you navigate university life.
Awareness & Advocacy Initiatives – Promoting inclusivity across USP.
Counselling Referral Support – Guidance for your mental well-being.
Scholarships for Students with Disabilities – Financial assistance through the Regional Scholarship Scheme.

How to Disclose Your Disability

Disclosing your disability ensures you receive tailored support and the necessary reasonable accommodations as outlined in the Disability Inclusiveness Policy.

Follow these simple steps:

Visit the USP Disability Resource Centre (located behind the Westpac Bank).
Provide your USP Offer Letter and a Medical Report (or a letter from an affiliated Disability Organization).
Complete the Voluntary Disability Disclosure Form.
We will coordinate with academic staff to ensure you have the support you need.

Privacy Matters – Your information is confidential and will only be used to enhance support services.

Your Rights & Responsibilities as a Student with a Disability

At USP, all students have the right to an inclusive education. As a student with a disability, you are entitled to:

Equal access to all courses, programs, and student services.

Specialized services to support your learning needs.

Reasonable accommodations to create an inclusive academic environment.

A safe and supportive space free from discrimination.

Your Responsibilities:

Communicate your needs – Let us know your specific requirements.

Use support services fairly – Access accommodations responsibly.

Be proactive – Speak up about challenges so we can work together on solutions.

Building Accessibility at USP

Laucala Bay Campus, Suva

Wheelchair access is available in select buildings, with ongoing accessibility audits.
Student residences at the Second Hall include wheelchair-accessible accommodation.
Due to the hilly terrain, some areas may have restricted access due to steep pathways.

Accessible Student Accommodation

Wheelchair-friendly housing is available at the Laucala Campus.
For accommodation details, contact: Manager, USP Student Halls.
Report accessibility barriers: Contact the Disability Resource Centre (DRC).

Achieve Success in Your Studies with DRC!

At the Disability Resource Centre (DRC), we empower you to reach your full academic potential. We provide:

Adjustments & Support – Minimizing the impact of your disability on your studies.
Guidance & Advice – Connecting you with the right university resources.
Self-Advocacy Skills – Encouraging you to take charge of your university experience.

While we’re always here to support you, self-advocacy is a vital skill that will benefit you beyond university life. You have the strength and ability – and we’re here to help you harness it!

Get In Touch!

Phone: 3237182 / 3231796
Email: disabilitycentre@usp.ac.fj

Business Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Fiji Time)
Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Fiji Time)
Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Meet the DRC Team

Name	Position	Email
Alfred Anthony	Manager	alfred.anthony@usp.ac.fj
Paulini Musukasau	Disability Service Assistant	paulini.musukasau@usp.ac.fj
Selina Nariva	Disability Services Assistant	selina.nariva@usp.ac.fj

At USP, inclusion is not just a goal—it’s a commitment. Join us as we work together to shape a more equitable and accessible university for all!