The University of the South Pacific provides students the ‘unique selling point’ through a world class education, says His Excellency the President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.
As chief guest at the Open Day at USP, which played host to hundreds of students from various schools, the head of state said it was now a fact that the more education a person has, the more opportunities for the person with the global economy now becoming knowledge based.
“Today is a chance to reflect on your unique selling points, your USP, or what makes you special, and to consider those areas in which you excel or have the greatest potential,” Ratu Epeli said while cleverly using the university’s acronym to make his point.
He told students that while choosing a programme of study it may not seem like an easy decision but all students bring a wealth of life experiences to university.
“All students have strong interests, natural inclinations and abilities, interests that may not immediately appear relevant to the world of work. That is your interests or qualities that make you special. The university you choose needs to help you develop your interests into a career,” he said.
Students from as far as Kadavu flocked the Laucala campus and visited various booths set up to help students make up their mind on their career paths.
A few schools from the islands such as Ovalau and Kadavu braved the sea journey to ensure the students are also exposed to the opportunities available to them.
Levuka’s Delana Methodist High School Form 7 student, Apete Naicori, who originally hails from Rewa, said he was interested in the science display as he wants to become a veterinarian.
“I am working hard at school so that I can join USP when I complete school. I want to become a veterinarian because I like animals especially horses,” he said.
Twins Vasemaca and Taraivini Kolikata, who interestingly study at different schools, have a passion for science as well and could be seen avidly taking in the mind boggling set up at the Chemistry display booth.
Vasemaca, who is a student of Gospel High, wants to become an aircraft engineer and her twin, who studies at Laucala Bay Secondary, wants to be a nurse but both are well aware that many challenges lay ahead.
“It’s really helpful to have an open day so that we understand where we are headed. I am happy that I will be raising the bar for girls by entering a profession where females are not that many,” Vasemaca said.
The open day is an annual event is the USP calendar.