Over 14,000 students attended The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Vodafone Fiji Open Day to explore, learn, and discover various programmes aligned with their future academic aspirations.
Schools from as far as Levuka, Yasawa, Lautoka, Rakiraki, Nadi, and the interior of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu turned up at USP’s Laucala, Lautoka, and Labasa campuses to engage with staff and get a glimpse of university life.
This annual event is a critical first step in a comprehensive process that familiarises students with the university and its wide range of programmes. Open Day events outline the various steps and pathways available for students to join the university, thrive during their studies, complete their programmes, and graduate with distinction.
With the theme “Our People, Our Stories,” this year’s Open Day resonated with students and the people of the Pacific, reflecting the region’s age-old tradition of storytelling. Storytelling has long been an art used to pass down valuable information to succeeding generations, preserving culture and values.
USP Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia said, “The University takes pride in highlighting the stories of our people to inspire the next generation of Pacific leaders who will choose to study at USP and become part of our Pacific stories.”
He added, “Prospective students and visitors will hear the unique and challenging journeys of our students, alumni, and staff, and be inspired to know that they too can succeed at USP.”
The Open Day is more than just an opportunity for discovery at USP; it also provides prospective students and stakeholders with a glimpse of the tertiary experience.
As part of the USP Open Day experience, students from maritime islands and across Fiji participated and won amazing prizes, engaged with staff, witnessed experiments, and learnt about the university’s collaborations with international institutions through the USP International Office.
Thousands of students gathered in the afternoon to witness cultural performances from over 14 USP Student Associations, providing yet another glimpse of the university’s unique charm.
USP also awarded Immanuel Saxena, a Year 13 student from Sigatoka Methodist College, who won the University’s ‘Tell Us Your Story’ competition.
Saxena’s story highlights his passion for helping others after witnessing people in his community struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. This experience inspired him to pursue psychology studies at USP next year.
As Saxena reflects on his journey through primary and secondary school, he is excited to begin his studies at USP and contribute to the healing and recovery of his community.
The saying “Education is an adventure” also reflects the commitment of parents, teachers, and students from Levuka Public School, which sent all its Year 13 students to the USP Laucala Campus for the Open Day event.
Students were also able to submit their applications at the USP Application Hub, making the process of applying and pursuing studies at the university easier than ever before.
Meanwhile, applications for Semester 1, 2025 are now open.
