The School of Information Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Physics (STEMP) and the School of Agriculture, Geography, Environment, Ocean and Natural Sciences (SAGEONS) came together on Thursday to honor the academic achievements of their first- and second-year students. The ceremony, held 6-8 pm at the Japan-Pacific ICT Centre, was a heartfelt recognition of students’ hard work, perseverance, and academic excellence. The attendees enjoyed cultural performances, a presentation by Women in STEMP & SAGEONS (WISS) representative Miss. Timaima Waqainibete, a student motivational talk by Ms Emelina Talosaga, and a demonstration of STEMPbot, an AI‑powered support chatbot.
The event also highlighted the tremendous support the schools garner from organisations and individuals regarding sponsorships. This year’s sponsors included Elegant Timber Supplies, Tappoo Group of Companies, Dr M. Daniel K. Wood, Bir Investment Limited, Kastel Technologies, Carpenters Fiji Limited, BSP Financial Group (Fiji) Pte Ltd, IRWIN ALSOP Pacific Pte Ltd, Telecom Fiji Limited, Ravindra’s Transport, Central Cuisine Investment Ltd (Southern Cross Restaurant, USP), Binaco Textiles, Dr Pritika Reddy, Professor Bibhya Sharma, Professor MGM Khan DHoS STEMP, Dr David Rohindra DHoS SAGEONS. Their generosity also shows the growing partnership between the schools and industry, and ensures that student achievements continue to be honored and celebrated.
A total of 35 awards were presented at the 2025 STEMP and SAGEONS Awards Ceremony, recognising 27 exceptional students. Some students were awarded in more than one category, reflecting their outstanding contributions across disciplines.
Awardees included Jepheth Finiasi, Shahineel Lal, Patrick Fapiana, Kara Anneka Vergara, Rohan Nandan, Sahil Krishna, Rajan Kumar, Naayaab Sarfraaz, Indeevar Nair, Toni Nam, Steven Moh, Prashil Tapessar, Richie Dioko, Rohan Nair, Glodiann Tonga, Nunia Togatea, Presley Singh, Kavya Singh, Harsha Raj, Raneesha Chand, Yoonho Kim, Dilvisha Nand, Teatantarawa Airam, David Paea, Devisha Devi, and Anav Chand.
Overall Most Outstanding Students
The most prestigious recognitions of the evening were the overall awards:
STEMP – Most Outstanding First-Year Students: Kara Anneka Vergara, Patrick Fapiana, and Rohan Nandan
STEMP – Most Outstanding Second-Year Student: Indeevar Nair
SAGEONS – Most Outstanding First-Year Student: Steven Moh
SAGEONS – Most Outstanding Second-Year Students: Presley Singh, Kavya Singh, and Nunia Togatea
These outstanding students demonstrated the highest levels of academic excellence, commitment, and perseverance. Their success reflects not only personal dedication but also the support of their peers, family, and university community.
In his welcome address, Professor Bibhya Sharma reminded students that true success stems from dedication, focus, and resilience. He highlighted that while your time at university may present adjustments, distractions, and difficulties, it is through perseverance, hard work, and determination that the seemingly impossible becomes possible. He encouraged students to trust in their abilities, remain focused on their goals, and never be afraid to step outside their comfort zones. His message resonated with all present and reinforced the belief that achievement is born not of luck, but of consistent effort and passion for learning.
STEMP and SAGEONS extend heartfelt congratulations to every recipient of the acclaimed awards. Their achievements reflect the spirit of excellence that also defines our university community. The Awards Night not only honoured outstanding academic performance but also celebrated the values of commitment and growth that underpin student life at USP.
We commend the recipients of the overall Most Outstanding Student Awards, whose achievements truly stood out across STEMP and SAGEONS. Their dedication sets an inspiring example for their peers and reflects the transformative potential of higher education.
As the journey continues, we encourage all students to embrace challenges as opportunities, maintain curiosity in their studies, and strive to be the future leaders of the region. The support systems at USP — from academic advising and peer mentoring to facilities and counselling — are here to help you navigate your path to success.
Congratulations once again to all awardees. May your accomplishments motivate others and mark the beginning of even greater achievements ahead.
