The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Semester Zero initiative will begin on Monday 9 January 2023.
Semester Zero focuses on all first-year students – both local and from across the region who will be joining the University in 2023.
Commencing January 9 and running for the next five weeks, future USP students will have the opportunity to experience what tertiary education is like.
Hosted on USP’s Moodle platform the initiative aims to provide a free online orientation for provisional and potential first-year students, “to learn more about USP and get a feel of university life,” said USPs Director of Centre for Flexibile Learning (CFL) Dr Rajni Chand.
“It is creatively designed to simulate academic tools that students will utilise as part of their studies at USP…
“All incoming first year students across the region are encouraged to take advantage of this free initiative and partake from the safety and comfort of their homes,” said Chand.
“As students await their external exam results, they will be able to at least get a glimpse of the kind of programmes on offer at USP and the kind of environment they will have to study in,” she added.
The Semester Zero initiative provides an online orientation, and allows students to navigate the various support systems provided by the University.
“It allows them from learning about the University and its learning and teaching environment, as well as its various campuses, services, and facilities, which is why Semester Zero was created,” said Chand.
USP Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia said it was an honour to see Semester Zero continue after its inaugural launch and great feedback from students last year.
“It also enabled students to experience the unique university life from their homes..
“We have created an online learning platform that will not only provide all of the necessary information about USP, but will also provide additional introductory literacy, numeracy, and digital skills through games, quizzes, notes, and study guides,” added Professor Pal Ahluwalia
“We must think creatively in order to ensure that our people are connected but also to provide meaningful transitions to all of our prospective students, regardless of their location,” Professor Ahluwalia said.
He also thanked the entire team for their hard work and dedication.
Semester Zero 2023 will officially commence next Monday, the 9th of January. Students can access all information on Semester Zero on www.usp.ac.fj/semesterzero.
Admissions for USP are now open. New applicants or those resuming studies can now apply for admission for Semester 1, 2023. For more information or academic counselling, visit a USP Campus near you or contact Student Administrative Services at asksas@usp.ac.fj
