Westpac has reaffirmed its dedication to education and skills development in Fiji and the broader Pacific region through its partnership with the University of the South Pacific (USP) and the establishment of its annual Scholarship Program. Launched in 2015, this initiative supports three students each year at USP by covering their full tuition fees—one each from the first, second, and third years of study.
This program aligns with Westpac’s broader mission to enhance local capabilities and cultivate future professionals in sectors that are vital for economic growth and innovation. Shane Smith, CEO of Westpac Fiji, emphasized the bank’s belief in education as a crucial driver of opportunity and advancement. “Our partnership with USP and support of these students is our way of investing in the next generation who will help shape Fiji’s and the region’s economic future,” he stated.
The USP Scholarship Program is part of Westpac’s comprehensive efforts in education, which includes initiatives like the Westpac Women & Girls Education Grant (WGEG). This grant has been instrumental for over 15 years, enabling girls and women across Fiji to access quality education at various levels—primary, secondary, and tertiary.
Mr. Smith added that by backing education at all stages, Westpac is fostering pathways for young individuals to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for meaningful contributions to their communities and the economy at large.
Siosiua Utoikamanu, pro-chancellor and chair of the council at USP, acknowledged the significance of such partnerships that focus on the future of students and the region. He noted that Westpac’s ongoing support for the USP Scholarship Programme showcases a mutual understanding that education is pivotal in building resilient economies and empowering Pacific communities.
“Together, we are creating clear pathways for young people to succeed and give back to their communities. For many students, financial assistance can be the difference between aspiration and achievement,” he remarked.
The scholarship is available to students majoring in fields such as Accounting, Economics, Finance, Computing Science, Information Systems, Bachelor of Network and Security, Bachelor of Software Engineering, or Commerce in Professional Accounting. This commitment to nurturing local talent signifies a positive step towards fostering a knowledge-driven economy in Fiji and the Pacific.
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