Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka today (19-11-25) opened the 100th meeting of the University of the South Pacific (USP) Council at the Hilton Hotel in Denarau, marking a historic milestone for the region’s premier academic institution.
In his address, the Prime Minister reflected on the university’s founding in 1968 and the vision of Pacific leaders who created USP as a centre of learning and living symbol of regional unity, self-reliance, and shared purpose.”
Hon. Rabuka said that more than five decades later, USP continues to embody those ideals by shaping generations of Pacific thinkers, scholars, policymakers, and leaders.
“USP is one of the clearest examples of Pacific regionalism at its best—where our collective effort becomes stronger than what any of us could achieve alone,” he said.
Prime Minister Rabuka acknowledged the leadership transition currently underway at USP, commending the Council for its “calm, steady, and transparent approach” during this period of change.
He described this moment not as a pause, but as “a reset and a step up”—an opportunity to rebuild trust, strengthen governance, and chart a confident path forward. As host country and a founding member of USP, Fiji reaffirmed its commitment to the University’s stability, financial sustainability, and academic excellence.
“Fiji stands with all fellow member countries to ensure this institution continues to thrive,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted USP’s central role in advancing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, commending the university’s contributions to climate research, digital learning, ocean governance, skills development, and youth empowerment.
He referenced the global impact of the student-led initiative, Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change, which began at USP and helped spur the campaign that led to the International Court of Justice’s historic advisory opinion on climate change.
“This achievement began in a USP classroom and grew into a powerful example of regional solidarity and youth leadership,” he said.
Hon. Rabuka also reiterated the region’s commitment to reviewing and strengthening its governance mechanisms to ensure the Pacific’s regional architecture remains fit-for-purpose.
“We face new and complex challenges, from climate change to cybersecurity, labour mobility, and rising economic pressures. These priorities must have clear institutional homes within the regional system,” he said.
Reflecting on the Ocean of Peace vision, the Prime Minister noted USP’s origins during the colonial era and its early ties to regional defence systems, describing the University as a platform that has long contributed to peace and stability in the Pacific.
“The ocean reminds us that these challenges cannot be solved alone, the Blue Pacific must remain a zone of peace, stability, and cooperation.”
He urged Council members to uphold the vision of the University’s founders—unity, courage, and foresight and to ensure that students and member countries remain at the centre of all decisions.
“As Prime Minister of Fiji, I reaffirm our unwavering support for the University of the South Pacific, its Council, its staff, and its students, this university must continue to stand as a beacon of Pacific unity, excellence, and hope.” he added.
The Prime Minister assured the interim leadership of Fiji’s full support as USP searches for its next Vice-Chancellor.
