CSSP Celebrates 40 Years of Advancing Chemistry with Inspiring Student Awards Event
Suva, Fiji – October 4, 2025
The School of Agriculture, Geography, Environment, and Natural Sciences at the University of the South Pacific hosted The Chemical Society of the South Pacific’s (CSSP) 40th anniversary with a vibrant celebration of science and student achievement during its Annual Competition Awards held on Saturday, 4th October 2025. The event brought together young scientific minds, educators, and dignitaries in a grand recognition of chemistry excellence across the nation.
Established in 1985 at USP, the CSSP has remained steadfast in its mission to advance chemical science and its application in the Pacific. Over the past four decades, the non-profit organisation has promoted scientific knowledge through workshops, outreach programs, and its signature student competitions — all aimed at fostering scientific growth and serving the public with professionalism and integrity.
The preliminary rounds were conducted in July across multiple centres, the University of the South Pacific, Nadi Muslim College, DAV College Ba, and Labasa Sangam College, with over 70 secondary schools nationwide taking part. Two hundred and seventy enthusiastic students competed in the preliminaries, demonstrating the growing interest and passion for chemistry among young Fijians. Following these rounds, the grand finals were held on the 4th of October 2025 at The University of the South Pacific, bringing together 35 of the top-performing schools from across the country. The competition was fierce, with students showcasing their analytical skills, teamwork, and creativity in what proved to be a highly challenging and inspiring finale. This year’s events featured the Chem-Battle, Titration Competition, and Poster and Video Projects. Notably, this year’s competitions saw over 60% female participation, reflecting the Society’s commitment to empowering women in science and supporting gender equality in STEM — a priority that aligns with global “Women in Science” initiatives.
The Chief Guest for the occasion was His Excellency, Honourable Mr. Rokuichiro Michii, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Fiji. In his address, Ambassador Michii praised the CSSP’s commitment to education and scientific development in the region, emphasizing the role of international collaboration in advancing Pacific science.
Welcoming the guests was CSSP President, Associate Professor David Rohindra, who reflected on the society’s journey over the past 40 years and the enduring impact of its programs on Pacific science education.
Also present were distinguished guests Mr. Nilesh Kumar, Vodafone Fiji Head of Recharge and Distribution; Professor Bibhya Sharma, Acting Head of SAGEONS; and Dr. Desta Gedefaw, Discipline Coordinator for Chemical and Biological Sciences at USP.
2025 CSSP Competition Winners
National Chem-Battle Competition
Titration Competition (Senior – Year 12)
Titration Competition (Advanced – Year 13)
Poster Competition
Video Competition
The CSSP’s Annual Competitions have become a hallmark of secondary school science in Fiji, nurturing a generation of young chemists, researchers, and innovators. This year’s 40th anniversary added special meaning to the celebration, showcasing the society’s enduring legacy and its continued drive to shape the future of science in the South Pacific.
As the curtains closed on this year’s event, the message was clear — the passion for chemistry is alive and thriving among Fiji’s youth, thanks to the unwavering efforts of CSSP and its partners. Here’s to 40 years of excellence — and to many more ahead.
