The University of the South Pacific (USP) Council will begin the search for its next vice-chancellor and president.
The decision was made during a confidential session at the council’s 99th meeting, held from May 19 to 21 in Auckland, New Zealand.
A Joint Committee of Council and Senate has been established to oversee the recruitment process, marking a key step in the university’s leadership transition.
Pro-Chancellor and council chairperson Siosiua ‘Utoikamanu described the gathering as “a time of reset” for the regional university.
“This was not just a meeting to govern,” Mr ‘Utoikamanu said in his opening address.
“It was a chance to pause, reflect, and ask ourselves hard questions.
“Do we still believe in this regional university?
“And if we do, what are we prepared to do to ensure it thrives in the years ahead?”
Council members endorsed USP’s audited financial statements for 2024 and approved salary adjustments for staff at the Tonga, Samoa, and Solomon Islands campuses.
They also gave the green light to a new Bachelor of Arts degree in Language Technology.
Closing the meeting, Mr ‘Utoikamanu emphasised the urgent need for bold action.
“Council has reaffirmed its belief in USP. But belief alone is not enough.
“The future we face is not ahead of us. It is already here.
“We must respond with courage, clarity, and unity.
“This is our opportunity to lead with purpose and to reshape USP so it continues to serve the region for generations to come.”
