The new Multi Purpose Theatre at the Japan-Pacific ICT Centre at the University of the South Pacific, funded by the Government of Japan, will be officially opened by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji, Commodore Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama and the Ambassador of Japan, H.E. Mr. Yutaka Yoshizawa at 10.00 a.m, on Wednesday, 22nd February, 2012.

The Embassy of Japan also takes this opportunity to share the state of recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake that had struck on March 11 last year, by setting up a Photo and Illustrative Exhibition at the above venue.

The architectural expression of the new multipurpose lecture theatre is unique and one that symbolizes the strong Pacific tradition that still exists in the region.

The new lecture theatre has a seating capacity of over 300 and is fitted with stage equipments and video projector.

The Japan-Pacific ICT centre was constructed in two Phases. Work on Phase I was completed and officially handed over on 6th July 2010. An additional grant was approved for work on Phase II to supplement the function of the new ICT Centre with a multi-purpose lecture theatre.

A grant of JPY 2.2 billion (approx. F$46 million) was provided for Phase I works of the “Construction of Information and Communication Technology Centre at USP” which included construction of two buildings, with facilities consisting of computer laboratories, conference rooms and specialised equipment. Furthermore, an additional grant of JPY 857 million (approx. F$18 million) was provided for Phase II works of this project to construct a multipurpose lecture theatre.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has carried out Technical Cooperation in ICT for human development and human security from 2010 at Japan-Pacific ICT centre, as part of the Japanese Technical Cooperation, and in collaboration with key stakeholders of USP, JICA has been supporting IT services to optimise the performance of USP-Net, conduct necessary trainings and provide expertise on enhancement of Distance and Flexible Learning courses. JICA has also been providing mentoring and comprehensive advice on designing two new bachelor courses in Computer Science and Information Systems disciplines at USP.