Learning opportunities for Savai’i highlighted

By Sina Filifilia Sevaaetasi 04 February 2017, 12:00AM

The University of the South Pacific (U.S.P.), Alafua Campus organised a two-day orientation and information session for new students at the U.S.P. Savai’i Centre this week.

The orientation sessions were well attended by students and parents.

There were presentations from various sections including the School of Agriculture, Food and Technology (F.B.E.), School of Biological and Chemical Sciences (F.S.T.E.), Pacific T.A.F.E., Library Services, IT Services, Campus Life and Student Administrative Services. 

The students were provided with information on the various support services as well as guidance and tips to guide them through their university life. 

The U.S.P. Alafua places much emphasis on its’ Orientation Programmes to ensure that new students are well supported and provided with the information to help them succeed.

The Head of School of Agriculture and Food Technology (S.A.F.T.), Associate Professor Mohammed Umar, encouraged students to take up Agriculture courses.

 He highlighted the importance of Agriculture in the Pacific region including Samoa. 

Students were also informed of scholarship opportunities to Samoan students enrolled in the Bachelor of Agriculture programme. 

Similarly, Dr. Singh from the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences spoke about the need for more Science graduates and the numerous opportunities that exist for science students in the region amidst important challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, technological and environmental challenges.

In recognition of the important role parents play in guiding and supporting students, the two-day programme also encouraged parents to attend. 

The Coordinator for Pacific T.A.F.E. in Samoa, Ronna Lee, reminded that “it takes a village to raise a child.” She encouraged students to make good use of the study opportunities and resources available to them through the U.S.P. Savai’i Centre. 

She also emphasised the importance of giving students second chances and elaborated on the wide range of opportunities available through Pacific T.A.F.E.

The majority of the U.S.P. Savai’i Centre students study U.S.P. courses via distance and flexible learning modes. 

As such the IT Manager, Le Mamea Sia Matalavea, highlighted the satellite REACT and MOODLE learning management systems that allow students to connect to Lecturers and students based in other U.S.P. member countries. 

In particular students were informed of exciting opportunities to take fully online courses with selected courses now having recorded lectures online using the new lecture capture facility. 

In addition students were informed of the services offered though the library located at the Savai’i Centre and Alafua campus, and the support and counselling services through Campus Life. 

Students were also guided through the registration process and other services offered by the Student Administrative Services.

By Sina Filifilia Sevaaetasi 04 February 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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