The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Emalus Campus celebrated the achievements of its 337 students who graduated on Friday 17 June in a face-to-face graduation ceremony held at the Epauto Multi complex Hall in Vanuatu.
Fifty-six per cent of the graduates were women and thirty-four per cent were awarded undergraduate degrees. Fifty per cent of students graduated from Pacific TAFE programmes.
This graduation saw fifty-three students graduating in Postgraduate programmes, of which twenty-one students received Master’s qualifications. Ten students received two awards which are counted once under their highest award. Students from seven countries graduated including three non-member countries testifying to the growing international profile and attraction of USP.
Mr Iati Bergmans, on behalf of the Pro-Chancellor, Honourable Dr Hilda Cathy Heine, welcomed everyone to the USP’s Emalus Campus Graduation Ceremony 2022.
In delivering the Pro-Chancellor’s remarks, he said graduation was a special occasion for the graduates and their families.
“Today marks the end of a career phase as a learner and the start of the next career phase as a young professional in the labour markets.”
USP Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia congratulated all the graduates and mentioned that although COVID-19 was a deterrent to students completing their studies on time, the numbers signified a strong desire to further education.
“I want to recognise your commitment, resilience, and perseverance in responding to the pandemic. Your patience and perseverance as students are nothing short of being worthy of praise,” he added.
“Today is a celebration of your tireless efforts and endurance; it also offers a time for us to thank the academic and professional staff who have adjusted amicably to their own sets of trials and provided a continuous commitment to helping you achieve your learning goals.”
Professor Ahluwalia said, “The University has endeavoured to impart the skills, insights and ideas which shall serve you well and in the future. May the lessons of your journey with USP navigate you to fulfil your purpose and potential for the greater good of your communities, your countries, and the Pacific region”.
“You are the leaders, the game changers and the innovators who will shape a better tomorrow for all. The world needs your intelligence and problem-solving skills, especially now more than ever.”
Professor Ahluwalia reiterated, “It needs your vigour and inquisitiveness to address the challenges we face today and those we will face tomorrow”.
Six of the top-performing Ni-Vanuatu USP Bachelor of Commerce Graduates who were selected to join the Governance for Growth Internship Programme also graduated. They are now undertaking placements with organisations that would develop their skills in accounting, finance, economics and public financial management. These placements aim to serve as a pathway for capacity building in the private and public sector and are a contribution to Vanuatu’s economic development.
