Minister of Education Aseri Radrodro addressed Parliament, highlighting the University of the South Pacific (USP)’s strong opposition to the findings of an External Review Committee (ERC) report commissioned by the Higher Education Commission. While the ERC noted USP’s strengths, such as the integration of practical components into various programs and its international recognition—including the 2024 re-accreditation of its tourism and hospitality program—it also pointed out critical areas requiring reform.
Mr. Radrodro referenced the ERC’s concerns about USP’s outdated curricula, which struggle to align with the evolving educational landscape post-COVID, particularly regarding the balance of online and in-person instruction. The committee recommended revising course content to better meet industry needs and suggested increasing the frequency of external program reviews to improve quality. They advised a three-year review cycle for new programs and a five-year review for existing ones, a shift from the current seven-year cycle.
In response, USP vehemently disputed the report’s findings, describing it as methodologically weak and inconsistent. The university emphasized that its evaluations align with international accreditation standards and highlighted ongoing transformations focused on student-centered learning and institutional resilience.
The conversation surrounding the ERC report ties into broader conversations about leadership and governance within USP, as seen in recent opinions voiced by Professor Vijay Naidu and ongoing protests related to administrative decisions. While there are significant challenges ahead, the continued dialogue among stakeholders offers a hopeful perspective on the potential for constructive change. With commitment from both the university’s leadership and its community, there remains optimism for USP to evolve and reinforce its role as a vital educational institution in the Pacific.
As changes unfold at USP, they present an opportunity for collaborative growth among its members and stakeholders, aiming to enhance the institution’s academic reputation and better serve its students.
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