The University of the South Pacific (USP) recently played host to two distinct yet equally impactful international programmes, strengthening its commitment to global engagement, cultural exchange and critical academic discourse.
Through collaborations with Union College and the University of Tampa, USP facilitated immersive experiences for students, delving into themes of education and marine conservation.
Union College: A Deep Dive into Pacific Education
From 12-14 May 2025, six students and accompanying staff from Union College in the United States embarked on a three-day “Pacific Engagement and Cultural Immersion Programme” centered around the theme of education.
This initiative, made possible through USP’s partnership with Projects Abroad, offered a unique opportunity for participants to engage with the nuances of Pacific academia and culture.
The Union College delegation were warmly welcomed with a traditional sevusevu ceremony, a profound expression of Fijian hospitality that immersed the visitors in the local customs.
Over the course of their visit, the students attended a series of enriching guest lectures delivered by distinguished USP academics.
Dr Apisalome Movono, Dr Nicholas Halter, Dr Rosiana Lagi, and Dr Domenica shared their expertise on a diverse range of topics, including the history of the Pacific, ecotourism and conservation, all intricately linked to the broader theme of education.
The programme also featured insightful contributions from external speakers from local universities and other relevant fields, providing a comprehensive and multi-faceted perspective.
A key highlight of the programme was the integration of local USP students, or “Buddies,” who accompanied the Union College visitors throughout their stay.
These interactions provided invaluable insights into the local student experience, offering an authentic glimpse into Fijian educational perspectives. The Buddies also led comprehensive campus tours, helping the Union College group navigate and familiarise themselves with the USP environment.
University of Tampa: Exploring Marine Conservation in the Pacific
On 14 May, USP then welcomed a group of 14 students and staff from the University of Tampa for a focused half-day programme on marine conservation. This partnership was facilitated by World Strides, led by the Resident Director Fiji Emberson Dival, further solidifying USP’s role as a regional hub for environmental education.
Like their Union College counterparts, the University of Tampa group were greeted with a heartfelt sevusevu ceremony, setting a tone of respect and cultural appreciation.
Despite the short duration of their visit, the students benefited immensely from the expertise of two prominent speakers: Joeli Veitayaki, who presented on the broader aspects of marine conservation, and Amanda Ford, who offered a specialised focus on coral conservation.
These lectures provided critical insights into the challenges and efforts surrounding the preservation of the Pacific’s vital marine ecosystems.
The University of Tampa students also had the opportunity to engage with local “Buddies” and interns who led them on a campus tour. This provided a glimpse into student life at USP and fostered direct interaction with their Pacific peers.
These programmes underscored USP’s dedication to fostering international academic collaboration and providing unique cultural immersion experiences.
By connecting global institutions with local expertise and traditions, USP continued to champion understanding and collaboration across borders, addressing critical global issues through education and shared knowledge.
