PIRSSU Otago 3.33

At the Pacific Islands Research & Student Support Unit (PIRSSU), we assist with recruiting, retaining, and supporting Pacific students in health professional and health-related courses.

We also conduct research to enhance Pacific health sciences students' experiences at university.

We are part of the University of Otago's Division of Health Sciences. The Division is the largest provider of health education training in New Zealand.

Research activities of the PIRSSU

Our research focuses on 4 key areas:
Recruiting students
Students' engagement and transition
Improving academic achievement
Evaluating support programmes

Supporting Pacific students in Health Sciences

The PIRSSU aims to increase the number of Pacific students in health sciences, and facilitate high academic outcomes. We do this through the research activities above, and also by supporting Pacific students before and during their time at university.

The Pacific Islands Health Professional Students Association (PIHPSA) is an active student support organisation. It works collaboratively with the PIRSSU to provide support and develop networks for students.

The Associate Dean (Pacific) Dr Fa'afetai Sopoaga is available to guide and support students at a one-to-one level.

Our weekly and annual programmes give students the opportunity to network with their peers, learn about Dunedin and university life, discover postgraduate research opportunities, and learn from working health professionals.

We also work with other groups to help students achieve their goals. Within the University of Otago.