As a proud alumna of The University of the South Pacific (USP), Joana Aba firmly believes that passion and perseverance will allow one to achieve their academic aspirations.
Born and raised in Honiara, Solomon Islands, Aba’s childhood was founded on the values of integrity and hard work, which her parents instilled in her from a young age.
“My parents always emphasised the importance of education, and they worked very hard to ensure my siblings and I have access to it,” she reflected.
“They also instilled in me the value of integrity, teaching us that success means little without being honest, accountable and respecting others.”
Aba said her decision to pursue Bachelor of Laws (LLB) studies at USP was driven by several key factors.
“The University’s regional focus, its commitment to addressing Pacific Island challenges, and its diverse student body all contributed to my choice,” she said.
“USP was the ideal place for me to gain both the academic grounding and the regional perspective that I needed and my time at the university was a transformative experience.”
The supportive lecturers, collaborative study sessions, and vibrant extracurricular activities created a well-rounded and inspirational environment, Aba shared.
Like many students, Aba was able to overcome hurdles during her academic journey at USP’s Emalus Campus in Vanuatu.
“Through determination and effective study habits, I managed to navigate these challenges successfully. The experience taught me resilience and time management—skills that continue to serve me today.”
Aba also upskilled her qualifications with a Professional Diploma in Legal Practice (PDLP) and is currently a senior officer at the Solomon Islands Postal Corporation.
She also has plans to pursue further studies at USP to support her career progression.
“This will allow me to excel in the field of commercial law and contract management, contributing to the development of effective legal and regulatory frameworks within the financial services sector,” Aba highlighted.
“I aim to strengthen my expertise in drafting, analysing, and negotiating contracts while fostering financial inclusion and innovation.”
“In the future, I plan to pursue advanced studies in commercial law at USP to deepen my knowledge and skills. This will not only support my current role but also prepare me for leadership opportunities where I can influence policy, drive strategic initiatives, and mentor others in the financial fields.”
She commended USP for opening the new Solomon Islands Campus at King George last year, saying it would provide students with more engaging educational experiences, strengthen community relations and foster innovation.
“I am optimistic about the future of education in my home country. USP plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Solomon Islands and its focus on region-specific challenges and solutions makes it a valuable partner in the nation’s ongoing development.”
“Investing in education is an essential step for Pacific youth to take control of their future, improve their economic and social standing, and help their communities thrive. It is a powerful tool for empowerment.”
