The 2021 Virtual Open Week (VOW) for The University of the South Pacific (USP) ended on a high note, receiving an incredible response from potential students, teachers and the general public.
The Virtual Open Week began on 30 August and ended today, providing an opportunity to interested secondary school students and public access to a wide range of information about the courses and programmes offered by the various Schools within the University.
The advantage of USP’s Virtual Open Week was that it allowed USP to reach out to potential students in remote schools and all USP member countries.
Participants relayed positive feedback of interacting with USP staff and being informed via zoom sessions from the comfort of their homes.
One of the great features of the online interaction for participants, they could re-visit the site multiple times to access information and videos throughout the week.
This provided them more opportunities to research and consult with their parents, teachers and peers to assist them in making their choices.
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education, Professor Jito Vanualailai said the Virtual Open Week is an initiative to encourage potential students across the country and the region to learn more about USP and gain insight into how the University can provide them with a fulfilling academic experience.
“The positive responses received from participants throughout the week is a testament to USP’s reputation for excellence in teaching and research as a premier university in the region. USP is ranked amongst the top 50 universities in the Oceania region.”
Students seeking detailed information and answers in specific areas was popular among participants.
Participants also enjoyed watching the videos that gave a good insight into USP and its work covering various faculties and sections.
Jenies Mudiliar, Director Marketing and Communications, said the Virtual Open Week saw a tremendous response from prospective students, parents and the general public across the region.
“We couldn’t be more pleased with the interest out there for USP as their first choice of tertiary education. As we draw the curtains on the VOW, we are ecstatic to welcome a new dawn in USP’s era, where we have been ranked amongst the top 10% of universities in the world, the top 400 universities for International Outlook and the top 500 universities for Industry Income by Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022,” she said.
“What a fantastic affirmation for those who are considering USP as their University. This speaks volumes of the research output and the calibre of academics, professional staff, alumni and students we have here, and we cannot wait for you to join this exclusive club with us.”
Drasa Secondary School teacher, Ms Sharon Narayan, praised the Virtual Open Week as an interactive session for her and the students.
“A lot of information was provided with programmes and courses offered at USP. Students were able to iron out their concerns during the session by asking questions and also indicating on the chatbox,” she said.
“The school is delighted, and I thank USP for conducting the zoom sessions for the students. It was a new experience for the students due to our remote setting. However, the students enjoyed the sessions.”
Adi Cakobau School Year 13 Student Jane Cai said that the overall delivery of the session was excellent.
“The course descriptions of the different schools and the career opportunities elaboration was beneficial, especially the remark from the representative of SAFE on researching the job market trend beforehand and pairing up relevant majors and minors,” she said.
Jane said she appreciates the awareness made on the provisional application protocol.
“Due to the current pandemic, it’s would be convenient to be able to apply Online. In fact, the initiative to host the Virtual Open Week was a great effort from your end to properly inform the students before they make their life-changing decision concerning university application,” she said.
The University of the South Pacific thanks all the VOW participants, sponsors and staff for making the USP’s VOW 2021 a successful one.
