The Vice Chancellor of the University of the South Pacific, Prof Rajesh Chandra and the Science leader of Land care Research New Zealand, Dr Phil Cowan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, to support science collaboration and to develop a high level science based strategic partnership.

Chandra said this partnership will be mutually beneficial and is part of USP's strategic plan objectives to increase research and applied policy work.

Cowan said they believe that Land care research's focus fits well with USP's purpose for the maintenance, advancement of knowledge by teaching, research and otherwise, and for the provision of appropriate levels of education and training responsive to the well being and needs of the communities in the South Pacific.