14/09/2026
STEMP Announcement 📣
From Fiji to the Stars: USP Student Selected as IAAC Ambassador.
The universe has always been a source of curiosity for USP Mathematics and Physics student Niyate Lal, and now she will have the opportunity to share that curiosity with students across Fiji.
Niyate has been selected as an official Ambassador for the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC), an international educational science competition that challenges students around the world to explore astronomy and astrophysics beyond the classroom.
The appointment builds on an exciting year in astronomy for Niyate. In the 2026 IAAC, she received a National Award for Fiji and reached the Final Round, placing among the top 15% of approximately 9,100 participants worldwide.
As an IAAC Ambassador, Niyate will help introduce more students to astronomy and astrophysics, promote participation in international opportunities, and support activities that encourage young people to explore science. Her plans include astronomy talks, information sessions, telescope observation nights and opportunities for students to connect with the wider astronomy community.
For Niyate, the goal goes beyond competition. It is about helping students in Fiji realize that the universe is not something distant or inaccessible. It is something they can question, explore and study.
“Look up. Ask questions. Be curious.”
Congratulations, Niyate, on this exciting achievement, and on bringing a little more of the universe closer to home. 🇫🇯