USP & ACIAR Partner for Innovation and Scholarships
The University of the South Pacific (USP) and the Australian Center for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) signed a partnership agreement at the Australian High Commission in Suva this week in a significant step towards fostering innovation and sustainable agricultural research in the Pacific.
Through its Pacific Agricultural Scholarship Support (PASS) program, ACIAR provides scholarships and support to postgraduate students in agriculture, forestry and fisheries at USP.
The new Partnering Arrangement allows for flexibility to adapt to the evolving needs of the region, ensuring that the partnership continues to thrive and deliver impactful results.
ACIAR CEO Professor Wendy Umberger highlighted the importance of this partnership, emphasising the principles of trust, open communication, and mutual respect.
ACIAR’s new ten-year strategic plan emphasizes the importance of leadership from local partners. This Partnering Arrangement reflects our commitment to supporting USP and FNU in taking on more leadership roles within the program.
The Partnering Arrangement is a testament to the strong and healthy working relationships that have been built over the years between our organisations. It is designed to serve as a management tool for our relationships, ensuring the successful delivery of the Pacific Agricultural Scholarship and Support Program (PASS).
Professor Wendy Umberger
USP’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President (Education), Professor Jito Vanualailai expressed the institution’s appreciation for ACIAR’s collaboration over the years.
With the support of this partnership, USP will continue to grow, develop, and produce quality graduates for the region, addressing pertinent issues such as climate change and post-harvest management.
Professor Jito Vanualailai
The agreement, which has been in discussion for over a year, outlines a framework for cooperation in agricultural research, capacity-building, and regional development.
With a shared vision for regional development, USP and ACIAR look forward to advancing impactful agricultural research and education for the Pacific’s future.
The Pacific Agricultural Scholarship Support (PASS) Partnering Arrangement was signed by ACIAR, USP and the Fiji National University (FNU).