The University of the South Pacific’s Discipline of Tourism and Hospitality Management (DTHM) has achieved significant accolades at the 18th International Panel of Experts Forum (IPoE) in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Marking its third consecutive year, USP has been honored with the International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education (THE-ICE) Etio International Student Satisfaction Global Index award. This recognition underscores the university’s dedication to providing exceptional education in tourism and hospitality.
The THE-ICE Etio Global Premier Ranking is a respected evaluation that compiles feedback from over 76,000 students across 148 institutions worldwide, serving as a critical indicator of student satisfaction in higher education. USP’s impressive performance, particularly in the Recommendation parameter, highlights the strong trust and satisfaction levels reported by students. This success reinforces the university’s commitment to delivering high-quality, relevant, and student-centered educational experiences.
Dr. Vikas Gupta, who serves as the Discipline Coordinator and Senior Lecturer at DTHM, expressed his pride in the university’s accomplishment, asserting that student satisfaction is an essential measure of the institution’s effectiveness. He also emphasized that this recognition not only validates USP’s educational initiatives but also its role in shaping professionals who can represent Pacific hospitality and global standards of excellence.
Additionally, Professor Gurmeet Singh, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor & Vice-President (Research and Innovation) and Head of the School of Business and Management, remarked that receiving this honor for three consecutive years reflects a vital milestone and strengthens the legacy of excellence within the university.
This recognition enhances USP’s reputation as a premier institution in tourism and hospitality education, acknowledging the dedication of its academic and professional staff, as well as the steadfast confidence of its international student community. As USP prepares to launch enrolments for its Tourism and Hospitality programmes for Semester 1, 2026, it invites prospective students to become part of a globally recognized academic network committed to setting high standards in the industry.
This accolade not only honors past accomplishments but also signals USP’s ongoing pledge to nurturing the next generation of tourism professionals equipped to meet the dynamic challenges and expectations within the ever-evolving landscape of the industry.