The University of the South Pacific (USP) is celebrating a remarkable 40-year partnership with the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), the largest global community dedicated to making study, internship, and volunteer abroad programmes accessible to all.
This enduring collaboration, which began in 1984 and has facilitated reciprocal exchanges for over 170 students, marks ISEP as USP’s longest-standing study abroad partner.
ISEP’s core mission resonates deeply with the values of global citizenship and intercultural understanding, aiming to break down barriers and provide affordable, immersive experiences in over 50 countries representing 350 Universities.
USP was recently presented with a commemorative plaque recognising this significant milestone by Wendy L. Martinec, Director of Member Relations for Asia & Oceania at ISEP during her visit to Fiji.
An ISEP experience goes beyond simply studying in a new location. It actively cultivates crucial global skills vital for employability in today’s interconnected world. Participants develop an openness to diverse perspectives, enhance their self-awareness, and foster a profound desire to contribute to a more peaceful, just, and inclusive global community.
With a vast network of 300 universities worldwide, ISEP provides unparalleled opportunities for students to broaden their horizons and gain invaluable international exposure.
This enduring partnership has been instrumental in USP’s internationalisation efforts, aligning perfectly with ISEP’s four-decade history of providing solutions for universities seeking to expand their global reach.
Looking to the future, USP and ISEP are embarking on exciting new projects, including the groundbreaking Western Indigenous Relationship Exchange (WIRE) Tour, scheduled for June.
This initiative is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between Indigenous communities and academic institutions, promoting vital cultural exchange, and advancing opportunities for Indigenous students in global education.
The WIRE Tour will bring representatives from the University of Wyoming, University of Kansas, and Montana State University to Fiji. The tour will focus on several key objectives:
The foundation of ISEP’s exchange model is built on reciprocity, ensuring affordability for students. Local students from USP pay their regular accommodation and meal costs at the host ISEP institution, while incoming ISEP students cover these expenses for the USP student studying abroad. This sustainable model has facilitated countless life-changing experiences over the past four decades.
USP’s commitment to this partnership is further underscored by the leadership role of Lillian Fuata, Manager of the International Office, who currently holds the position of Chair-elect for the Council of Advisors and serves as an Ex-Officio Board Member for ISEP.
Her involvement highlights USP’s dedication to shaping the future of international education and strengthening its ties within the global ISEP network.
As USP and ISEP celebrate 40 years of successful collaboration, they look forward to a future filled with continued partnership, expanded opportunities for students, and groundbreaking initiatives like the WIRE Tour, which promises to create meaningful and lasting connections for Indigenous students and communities worldwide.
