More than 10,000 students from over 100 schools turned out for the University of the South Pacific’s Open Day at the Laucala Campus, an event designed to give a clear look at courses, facilities, and campus life. The day, held under the theme “Serving the Pacific,” featured guided tours, exhibits, and cultural displays, with faculty and current students on hand to offer guidance on study options and potential career paths.
USP Open Day representative Charlene Lanyon explained that the event is meant to help prospective students, high school teachers, and other interested individuals make informed decisions about tertiary study. She noted that the day provides guided tours and valuable opportunities to speak with current students to gain firsthand insight into different programs and pathways. “This open day invites high school students, teachers, and anyone else interested to pursue further studies and be guided through tours. Prospective students also have the chance to speak with current students to learn about tertiary options,” Lanyon said. She added that Open Day is an important part of USP’s ongoing work to guide young people toward their future careers.
The event highlights USP’s commitment to accessibility and informed choice, offering a glimpse into campus life, academic options, and the support networks available to students as they navigate higher education.
Context from the wider higher-education landscape in Fiji shows a sustained interest in university open days, with several institutions reporting record attendance. Across Fiji, university open days have drawn tens of thousands of attendees, underscoring the appeal of on-campus experiences, hands-on programs, and direct interactions with staff and students. For example, Fiji National University recently reported more than 20,000 attendees across four campuses during its open days, with thousands more visiting individual campuses on opening days. Such events frequently highlight programs across a broad range of fields—from engineering and fisheries to agriculture and trades—and often include opportunities for immediate admissions discussions and on-site guidance for next steps.
Photos from the event captured the energy of students exploring booths, engaging with academic staff, and enjoying cultural displays that reflect the Pacific region’s diverse communities. The open day also serves as a platform for schools and families to learn about the many pathways to higher education and the different experiences available at USP.
Additional value and commentary:
– This Open Day reinforces USP’s role in regional development by connecting young people with programs that align with community needs across the Pacific.
– Prospective students should consider following up with specific faculties of interest to learn about entry requirements, scholarships, and the latest degree offerings.
– A future piece could track how attendees translate Open Day interactions into applications, enrollments, or early pathway programs, as well as how local schools integrate campus visits into their career guidance curricula.
Overall takeaway: USP’s Laucala Campus Open Day successfully connected thousands of prospective students with information, people, and experiences to help shape their higher-education choices, while reflecting a broader national trend of strong engagement in university outreach activities.
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