Government has spent a total of $13.6 million in TELS and National Toppers Scholarships at the University of the South Pacific in 2016.
Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum highlighted this in parliament while speaking on the Committee’s Review Report on USP’s 2016 Annual Report.
He says that in 2016, TELS and Toppers scholarships assisted 3,960 students at USP.
Sayed-Khaiyum adds that 11 students living with disabilities graduated from USP in 2016 and have entered the workforce ready to contribute and serve the community adding that government now has a special scholarship for students with disabilities.
He also highlighted that one of the women who graduated is now a sign language interpreter in parliament.
The Attorney General also highlighted that a total of 18 programmes at USP have been internationally accredited with 4 programs recognized.
Sayed-Khaiyum also highlighted that the Ministry of Economy on the basis of recommendation by the Fiji Higher Education Commission funds tertiary institutions including USP.
Leader of Opposition, Sitiveni Rabuka also shared of his time with the University of the South Pacific Labasa Campus just after losing the elections in 1999.
He shared how he questioned the requirements to open a Climate Research Centre as some of the best barrier reefs in the world are in Labasa.
Rabuka also pointed out that young people studying in universities be encouraged to take up or join a reputable sports club as university sports clubs were some of the best sports clubs in the world.
He adds that for many who play rugby - the question is what happens after rugby and for young people who complete their studies and continue with their sports clubs this would address that question.
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