The University of the South Pacific signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Solomon Islands National University (SINU), on Thursday 8 August, 2013, at the USP Laucala Campus in Suva.
It was a historic occasion which marked the building of a strong relationship between the two Universities. The MOU is designed to foster a professional relationship through mutual cooperation in teaching and research between USP and SINU.
SINU, established in April 2013 is the newest University in the Pacific region, formerly known as the Solomon Islands College of Higher Education.
The MOU signing was part of a week-long visit by a SINU delegation, which consisted of: SINU Pro-Chancellor, Sir Nathaniel Waena, Vice-Chancellor, Dr Glynn Galo, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Corporate), Mr Donald Malasa, Acting Dean of School of Technology and Maritime Studies, Mr Solomon Pita, and Acting Director Finance, Mr Walter Maesugea.
The two universities agreed to cooperate on the following areas:
Exchange or short-term attachment of faculty staff;
-Joint research activities;
-Shared teaching practices and support;
-Participation in seminars and academic meetings;
-Exchange of academic materials and other information;
-Special short-term academic programmes; and
-Student exchange for research and study.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor, Dr Esther Williams expressed her delight at the signing, saying that USP was honoured to have the opportunity to talk and collaborate with peers from a University from the region, with SINU being the first University in the Solomon Islands.
SINU Vice-Chancellor, Dr Glynn Galo, said this was one of the small steps that will help move SINU forward.
SINU Pro-Chancellor, Sir Nathaniel Waena, said it is indeed a moment to remember, for it is SINU’s first ever MOU signing with another University. He assured USP management, “as a grown-up entity, we certainly look up to you and we are looking forward to working with you”. He further thanked the University for the informative discussions and for accommodating the delegation throughout their visit.
During the course of their visit, the team met with various University staff involved in the daily running of the University, including members of the Senior Management Team (SMT), and the Development, Marketing and Communications (DMC) office. The USP Pro-Chancellor, Mr Ikbal Jannif welcomed the delegation to the University on the first day. The delegation also met with the University federal student body, the USP Student Association (USPSA).
The SINU delegation also participated in USP’s 2013 Open Day held on 9 August.
Source: http://thejetnewspaper.com/