Special ceremonies were held by The University of the South Pacific (USP) to recognise the achievements of 50 students completing their academic programmes including 15 students pursuing Master’s degrees, through the support of the Australia Awards Pacific Scholarship (AAPS) and the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme (MNZSP).
Speaking on behalf of USP, Director Strategic Projects and Initiatives, Marica Tabualevu, highlighted the vital role of regional scholarship programs in empowering Pacific learners.
“These scholarships open doors for our students to pursue higher education while enabling them to give back meaningfully to their families and communities,” she said.
She added that the partnership between USP, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), and the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) demonstrated the power of collaboration in advancing education and shaping a stronger, more connected Pacific region.
First Secretary of the New Zealand High Commission, Jane Anderson, commended the Manaaki scholars for their dedication, acknowledging the commitment they made to their education and communities.
Representing the Australian High Commission, Counsellor for Economic and Development Cooperation, Andrew Shepherd, praised the resilience of the scholars and emphasised the important role they will play in the social and economic development of the Pacific.
Paea Tau’aika of Tonga, who recently completed his Master of Commerce in Economics through the Manaaki NZ Scholarship programme and now an Economist at Department of Energy, Tonga reflected on his journey:
“Studying under the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship at USP has been a life-changing journey. It challenged me to think critically, work collaboratively, and see the wider economic opportunities for our Pacific region. Completing my master’s feels like more than just achieving a qualification – it’s a step towards giving back to my community and contributing to Tonga’s development.”
Trinity Gabriel Papaata, a Bachelor of Science student majoring in Biology and Chemistry from Samoa, shared:
“The Australia Awards Pacific Scholarship didn’t just give me an education – it gave me perspective. I’ve learned that growth doesn’t always come from comfort; sometimes, it comes from being placed exactly where you didn’t plan to be. Fiji became more than just the place I studied; it became the place I found strength, courage, and purpose.
The event marked the completion of their studies and the beginning of a new chapter as the scholars prepare to return home, ready to apply their skills and knowledge to benefit their communities and the wider Pacific region.
