Future-focused, creative and passionate high school students from Suva gathered at The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Laucala Campus for the official launch of the Solve for Tomorrow 2025 competition, a regional initiative by Samsung.
Organised in collaboration with USP’s School of Information Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Physics (STEMP), the initiative invites students to address real-life community problems using STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
This year’s competition focuses on three key themes: education, health and well-being; ocean and climate change; and sustainable community development. Students are encouraged to identify issues in their communities and develop creative, technology-driven solutions.
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Guest and Acting Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education, Ratu Meli Nacuva, emphasised the vital role STEM plays in national development and innovation.
Reflecting on his own career, he highlighted the importance of planning and systems thinking.
“If you fail to plan, then you plan to fail,” he said. “It’s not just your technical skills that matter anymore — it’s your ability to think.”
“Solve for Tomorrow is a journey that fosters critical thinking and innovation. It prepares our young people not just to understand problems, but to solve them in ways that are relevant to our Pacific context.”
Among the many excited students was Emily Whippy from St Joseph’s Secondary School. She expressed her gratitude for being part of a platform that encourages collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving.
“I’m really proud to be part of something where young minds can come together to share ideas and showcase their brilliance,” she said.
She praised her teammates for their passion and unique strengths.
“Everyone brings something different — whether it’s creativity, research skills, or technical know-how. We’re learning how to listen, problem-solve, and turn ideas into something meaningful.”
She also reflected on the personal growth she has experienced.
“It’s not just about competing — it’s about growing together. We’re learning to respect each other’s strengths and work as one unit. I want to thank our teachers for always believing in us and USP and Samsung for opening the doors to new possibilities.”
Mohammed Riyaz, Head of Department for Maths and Physics at Yat Sen Secondary School, shared the motivation behind his students’ project.
“We’re focusing on an app that helps people suffering from loneliness or mental health challenges, especially the elderly or those with ADHD, by connecting them through educational entertainment. It’s something new for Fiji and has real potential.”
“It’s not just about winning. It’s about critical thinking, teamwork, and development. We want students to learn by doing and become innovative problem-solvers who can clean up the world we’ve spent a hundred years polluting,” he said
Professor Bibhya Nand Sharma, Head of STEMP at USP, shared his support for the initiative.
“Solve for Tomorrow is about celebrating innovation, science education, and the endless potential of our young minds. It aligns with our vision to have future-ready graduates who find Pacific solutions in a Pacific way.”
The competition website, officially launched during the event, will serve as a central hub for team registration, resources, and updates.
Winning teams will receive cash awards and Samsung devices. There are also extra prizes funded by USP for participating schools. All students and schools involved will receive participation certificates that can be added to their CVs and future applications.
Participating schools in this year’s competition include DAV Girls College, St Joseph’s Secondary School, Suva Grammar School, Yat Sen Secondary School, Jai Narayan College, and Suva Muslim College.
For many students, the journey begins now, with a bold vision for a brighter tomorrow.
