The modern, newest and greatest Information and Communication Technology Centre at the University of the South Pacific, funded by the Government of Japan, was officially opened by the Ambassador of Japan, H.E. Mr. Yutaka Yoshizawa at 2.30 pm on Tuesday, 6th July, 2010 who is also witness the official ground breaking ceremony to mark commencement of Phase II works.

The Government of Japan donated JPY 2.2 billion (approx. F$29 million) for Phase I works which include construction of two buildings, with facilities consisting of computer laboratories, conference rooms and specialised equipment.

Furthermore, the Japanese government offered an additional grant aid worth approximately JPY 857 million (approx. F$16.17 million) for work on the second phase to supplement the function of the new ICT Centre with a multi-purpose lecture theatre.

In addition, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has begun with a three year Japanese Technical Cooperation for the ICT for human development and human security. As part of the Japanese Technical Cooperation, JICA in collaboration with key stakeholders of USP will support IT services to optimise the performance of USPNet, conduct necessary trainings and provide expertise on enhancement of Distance and Flexible Learning courses and provide mentoring and comprehensive advice on designing two new bachelor courses in Computer Science and Information Systems.

Japan’s assistance follows a request from the Government of the Republic of the 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, 2006 and 2009 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 in the region and promote socio-economic development.  

From Left:

H.E. Ambassador of Japan, Mr. Yutaka Yoshizawa, Vice Cancellor of the University of the South Pacific, Professor Rajesh Chandra,and H.E. President of the Republic of the Fiji Islands, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau