A total of 238 students marked a significant academic milestone at The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) graduation ceremony held at the Friendship Hall in Honiara, Friday.
The ceremony was officiated by His Majesty King Tupou VI of Tonga, the University’s 32nd Chancellor, who conferred the degrees, diplomas, and certificates to those present and in absentia.
Surrounded by family, friends, and supporters, the students were awarded their certificates in a celebration of their hard work and achievements.
The event also included musical interludes by the University’s graduation choir, comprised of staff, students and a panpipe group, which celebrated the local heritage and highlighted the diverse cultural fabric of the USP community.
In his remarks, Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Council and the Interim Management Group (IMG), Siosiua Tuitalukua Tupou Utoikamanu, said the graduation event signified the students’ discipline and determination.
“It also reflects the strength of your families, your communities, and the vibrant culture of Solomon Islands that has supported you every step of the way. Graduation is always a moment of deep significance – but here in Solomon Islands, that significance carries an even richer meaning,” he shared.
“USP and Solomon Islands are deeply intertwined – through the thousands of graduates who serve across every sector, through the strength of this campus, and through a shared commitment to education as the foundation of national development.”
“Graduates of USP – you are uniquely equipped to lead these solutions. You leave today not just with a qualification, but with a responsibility: to serve, to innovate, and to strengthen the nation that has invested in you.”
Bachelor of Commerce graduate Caroline Raomae said her academic journey at USP was filled with experiences that have moulded her into a more critical and passionate person.
“USP has helped me realise my full potential. As this season of ours with the University comes to an end today, I hope my fellow graduates and I walk out of this building proud to be a USP alumni and a Pacific Islander,” she said.
“We all have our unique experiences and memories of studying at USP. From the tiring hours spent doing assignments and preparing for finals, to moments of absolute chaos and doubt – we can now say with pride that we finally did it!”
About 127 of the graduates are males, with the students hailing from countries including Solomon Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Tokelau and Vanuatu.
The next graduation ceremony will be held at the USP Tonga Campus on 10 October 2025.
– USP Press
