USP Open Day is an important occasion in the calendar of the University that provides an excellent opportunity for secondary school students and members of the community to see what USP has to offer, and I would like to welcome all of you very warmly to USP Open Day 2008. Our most special welcome goes to our Chief Guest, Honourable Mr. Filipe Bole and Mrs Bole. As we can see from the long list of portfolios that the Honourable Minister is responsible for, he is an extremely busy person, and we appreciate it very greatly, Honourable Minister, that you have found time to be our Chief Guest and to launch USP Open Day 2008. We are honoured by your presence Honourable Minister.
2. USP As Premier Provider of Quality of Higher Education
I realize that we all wish to listen to the Honourable Minister, but with your indulgence, I wish to say a few things about the University and this year’s theme-- “leading a quality region—driving education with technology”.
I believe that the University is turning the corner in terms of its finances, although hardships still remain. Costs have been contained, structures are being streamlined, and a strong sense of reshaping the University for a more sustainable future pervades all our work. We have already produced a good draft budget for next year. We are grateful Honourable Minister to