Westpac has reaffirmed its dedication to education and skill development across Fiji and the broader Pacific region through its partnership with the University of the South Pacific (USP) and its annual scholarship program. This program, established in 2015, provides essential support to three students each year at USP, covering full tuition fees for a first-year, second-year, and third-year student.
The scholarship initiative aligns with Westpac’s commitment to enhancing local capabilities and nurturing future professionals in sectors crucial to economic growth and innovation. Shane Smith, Westpac Fiji’s chief executive officer, emphasized the transformative power of education, stating, “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.”
In addition to the USP Scholarship Program, Westpac oversees the Westpac Women & Girls Education Grant (WGEG), which for over 15 years has granted girls and women in Fiji the opportunity to access quality education at various levels, from primary to tertiary.
Smith further articulated the importance of supporting education at all stages, highlighting how such investments create pathways for youth to acquire vital skills and knowledge essential for meaningful community contributions and participation in the wider economy.
Siosiua Utoikamanu, the pro-chancellor and chair of council at USP, noted the value of long-term partnerships that make a significant investment in the future of students and the region. He stated, “Westpac’s continued commitment to the USP Scholarship Programme reflects a shared belief that education is central to building resilient economies and empowered Pacific communities. Together, we are creating clear pathways for young people to succeed and give back to their communities. For many students, financial support can be the difference between aspiration and achievement.”
The USP scholarship is available to students majoring in various fields, including Accounting, Economics, Finance, Computing Science, Information Systems, and those pursuing degrees in Network and Security, Software Engineering, or Bachelor of Commerce in Professional Accounting.
This partnership not only fosters academic growth but also aims to empower students, facilitating their ability to focus on their studies and reach their full potential, ultimately contributing to the prosperity of their communities and the entire region.