The University of the South Pacific welcomed its new Pro-Chancellor, Winston Thompson at its main campus in Suva, Fiji.
His appointment was made by the USP Council in October this year.
Thompson is a highly respected former senior public servant having worked as Permanent Secretary for several Fijian Government Ministries including Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Energy, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forests and Fiji Public Service Commission. His most recent appointment was as Fiji’s Ambassador to USA where he served for six years. He also served as Ambassador to Mexico and High Commissioner to Canada from 2009 to 2015.
Thompson is well acquainted with USP. He has been the Chair of the University Grants Committee (UGC) for the last ten years.
In welcoming the new Pro-Chancellor, Professor Rajesh Chandra said that Thompson has been successful in guiding the University through the complexities of UGC during a time when getting funding was not that easy.
Professor Chandra is confident that given Thompson’s impressive track record and achievements, he will strongly contribute towards guiding the University through the challenges of transforming from good to excellent.
While thanking the Vice-Chancellor for the warm welcome, Thompson assured that he will do his utmost as the Pro-Chancellor to improve the reputation of USP.
He added that his role in the UGC was critical in the achievement of the objectives that USP has set out in its Strategic Plan (2013-2018).
Thompson said that as a quality University, USP has had a good track record to ensure greater support from its development partners.
Thompson’s term is for three years with effect from 1 January 2016 in accordance with the Ordinance for the Appointment of Pro-Chancellor & Chair of Council.