The University of Otago's Division of Health Sciences provides Pacific Island students with a range of programmes and support. These include the Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit, and the Pacific Foundation Programme.
The Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit
The Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit (PIRSSU):
- Coordinates support for over 500 Pacific Island students studying Health Sciences at the University of Otago
- Provides a research-informed approach on how best to recruit, retain, and increase the completion rates for Pacific students in health sciences
- Follows the Health Sciences Pacific Strategic Framework to coordinate work within the Division
- Engages with Pacific communities and organisations, schools, career advisors, government, and non-governmental organisations in the efforts to improve outcomes for Pacific students at tertiary level
The POPO Foundation Programme
The POPO Foundation Programme (PFP) works closely with PIRSSU.
The Foundation Year course at Otago is a great way to prepare for your first year of university. It also gives you time to adjust to the student life in Dunedin.
Each year, the POPO Foundation Scholarship Programme (PFP) supports 10 Pacific students who:
- Are studying the Foundation Year Health Sciences course, and
- Intend to apply for the Health Sciences First Year course at Otago, or any other health-related programme
- The 10 PFP students will receive a guaranteed place in a University of Otago residential college.
Information, resources, and support for Pacific Island students
Pacific Island students have access to information, resources, and support from centres throughout the University of Otago, and other student associations:
- Pacificana a resource for students thinking about studying at Otago
- The Pacific Islands Centre offers resources and support to Pacific Island students
- HEDC Student Learning Development assists students with study skills and learning support
- The Pacific Island Health Professional Students' Association supports Pacific Island students studying Health Sciences at the University of Otago
