The official opening ceremony of the Umanand Prasad School of Medicine was held on Saturday 24th of October 2009in the University's main campus in Saweni, Lautoka, the official part of the ceremony was held in the main hall located in the University's main building.

The Chief Guest at the occasion was the Prime Minister of Fiji, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama. other invited guests included Cabinet Ministers, members of the Diplomatic Crops, Heads of other Tertiary Institutions such as USP, FIT and FSMed, Parents, Council members and other friends of the University.

The Programme began with Fiji's National Anthem performed by the Natabua High School band. this was followed by the University prayer and garlanding of the Chief Guest.

The day's programme had a good mix of speeches and entertainment.

In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor thanked the landowners for allowing the establishment of the University. "To the sacred vanua o Vuda, Na Momo levu na Tui Vuda and the people of Vuda, the University of Fiji acknowledges with gratitude your generosity of spirit in allowing the University, a place of higher learning for the young people of Fiji and generations to come, to be planted, and take root and grow on your soil." he said.

He then formally welcomed all the invited guests to the function. professor Muralidhar also talked about the University in terms of its growth as well as discussed some of the programmes that are on offer.

In a special address, the Chief Guest, Commodore J.V Bainimarama acknolwedged the commitment and hardwork shown by Dr. Prasad in developing the new Medical School. he also went on to say that it was pleasing to see former fiji citrizens returning to their homeland and contributing towards its economy. He mentioned that the government encrouraged such a move.

He also stressed on the importance of establishing the medical school. "Ladies and Gentlemen Fiji is in dire need of doctors and medical specialists. The training of new doctors through the UPSM will contribute to the fulfillment of that need. These new doctors need to remain in Fiji after their training, to staff hospitals in order to provide' the much needed medical services to our people", he said.

A traditional indian dance called the Bharat Natyam and Meke were also part of the programme. The breathtaking performances were certainly one of the highlights of the event.

The invited guests were then escorted to the new Medical complex where the Prime Minister was invited to the ribbon cutting and plaque unveiling ceremony. The day's events concluded with lunch.

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Click here to view the Prime Minister's Speech

Click here to view Professor Muralidhar's Speech