PARENTS were reminded of the important role they play in their children’s lives at the USP parents and partners orientation Saturday.
USP deputy vice-chancellor Dr Esther Williams said the peer group influence was strong especially for new students at the university.
“You (parents) must trust your child with the decisions that they make. But at the same time, you must be there to guide them along,” she said.
“As they leave home, they will be making their own decisions. You will now have to speak to them not as children but as your level and you must also remember to listen to them.”
She reminded parents to take it easy when delegating house chores for the students so they have enough time to study and finish their assignments.
The orientation at the Laucala campus allowed parents of new students the opportunity to interact with staff and faculty of the university.
It also allowed staff the opportunity to answer questions about the structure and dynamics of university life and ways in which parents can be supportive to their children or partner.
Semester one for USP begins today.
Suva (Fiji Times)
