The University of the South Pacific (USP) Kiribati Campus successfully hosted its 2025 Open Day, attracting hundreds of prospective high school students and their families.
This event served not merely as an academic showcase, but as a critical platform emphasising USP’s strategic commitment to national resilience and localised development.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, USP Kiribati Officer in Charge (OIC), Ebwe Mwakaea articulated the profound regional significance of the Campus.
“Kiribati Campus continues to ensure that excellence is accessible locally, empowering our youth to thrive and lead without needing to leave our islands,” she said.
“The Open Day was a clear replication of this commitment, offering a comprehensive view of study programmes and career pathways.”
She highlighted that the necessity of empowering youth to tackle the country’s most urgent existential threats.
“Our islands face serious challenges from climate change, including rising sea levels and changing weather patterns,” she added.
“USP is working hard to prepare students to face these problems through academic programmes that focus directly on climate action, sustainability, and innovation.”
“We want our young people to become leaders who can protect our islands and help our communities grow stronger. USP Kiribati Campus is here to support them, offering a place to learn, grow, and become the change-makers our country needs.”
The benefits of localised tertiary study were powerfully underscored by student speaker and Bachelor of Arts student, Tetaake Burangke.
“One of the biggest advantages is being able to study here in my country. Staying in Kiribati and studying has meant that I can continue to be with my family,” Tetaake said.
“I encourage high school students to explore the opportunities available here at USP, it is a place where you can learn and discover more.”
The day was marked by dynamic educational displays, interactive sessions with staff, and cultural entertainment, providing a stimulating environment for students to make informed choices about their future.
USP has six schools; the School of Accounting, Finance and Economics (SAFE), School of Business and Management (SBM), School of Information Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Physics (STEMP), School of Agriculture, Geography, Environment, Ocean and Natural Sciences (SAGEONS), School of Law and Social Sciences (SoLaSS), School of Pacific Arts, Communication and Education (SPACE) and the Pacific Technical and Further Education (Pacific TAFE) and the Centre for Sustainable Futures (CSF), that offers programmes to students in the region and beyond.
