Bilateral Relations » Japan's Economic Cooperation between Japan and the Republic of the Fiji Island » Past Assistance Projects to Fiji» General Grant Aid and Grant Aid for Fisheries» Press Release

Construction Work on Japanese Funded USP-ICT Centre Project Begins

Embargo: Wednesday, 21st January 2009, 10.00 a.m.

Main construction work on the Information and Communication Technology Centre at the University of the South Pacific, funded by the Government of Japan, has commenced. The Ambassador of Japan, H.E. Mr. Yutaka Yoshizawa was present at the University of the South Pacific, Laucala Bay Campus in Suva at 10.00 am on Wednesday, 21st January, 2009 to witness the official ground breaking ceremony.

A grant of JPY 2.2 billion (approx. F$29 million) was made available for the construction of two buildings, with facilities consisting of computer laboratories, conference rooms and specialised equipment.

It is hoped that the new Information and Communication Technology Centre at the University of the South Pacific will ensure the South Pacific region’s enhanced participation in the global information society. This centre will lead to research development and education in the ICT field, thereby, promoting socio-economic development through the growth of ICT potential in the region.

Japan’s assistance follows a request from the Government of the Republic of Fiji Islands on behalf of the twelve USP member countries and the region in 1999. Following a survey conducted by a Japanese study team in 2003, 2005 and 2006, the Government of Japan decided to provide the grant aid under its bilateral development assistance programme to USP member countries. This grant aid is in line with Japan’s objective to provide sustainable and constructive support for the development of projects that contribute to the improvement of the distance and flexible learning activities using USPNet in the region and promote socio-economic growth and development.

Bilateral Relations » Japan's Economic Cooperation between Japan and the Republic of the Fiji Island » Past Assistance Projects to Fiji» General Grant Aid and Grant Aid for Fisheries