New Caledonia capacity to be supported by University of the South Pacific

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The Vice Chancellor of the University of the South Pacific (USP) Professor Rajesh Chandra, said USP is willing enter into a partnership with MSG (Melanesian Spearhead Group) countries in developing the human resource capacity for the Kanaks in New Caledonia.

“A decision by MSG leaders was for each country to take the responsibility of assisting the Kanaks of New Caledonia in building up their capacities in preparation for the independence referendum in 2015,” the Prime Minister said during a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of USP, Professor Ranjesh Chandra.

Professor Chandra said if Vanuatu wishes to sponsor for instance, a Kanak to study law in Port Vila, USP would be glad to facilitate the effort by providing a crash courses in English for potential candidates to acquire the required standard of English needed to pursue tertiary education at USP.

Prime Minister Kilman said he raised the issue with the Vice Chancellor so that there is continuity and to show that Vanuatu is committed to the independence and development of New Caledonia. He said Vanuatu as the key voice of independence for New Caledonia wants the Kanaks to develop their resources to the capacity where they are competent of running their own affairs in government, economic development, legal institution and social services etc…

“If each MSG government offers sponsorship for a number of our Melanesian brothers in New Caledonia, it will go a long way in helping to build their capacity in different fields.”

In other developments, the Professor said USP is going to offer French language programs at the Emalus campus in Port Vila as part of a tripartite agreement between USP, the University of New Caledonia and the University of Mauritius.