Tributes remembering the life of the former University of the South Pacific (USP) Vice Chancellor (VC) Professor Rajesh Chandra has poured in from academics from Fiji and the region including those that had worked with Mr Chandra in his term at USP and the University of Fiji.

Professor Chandra died last Thursday morning after a prolonged illness.

He was the longest-serving USP Vice-Chancellor, holding the position from 2008 to 2018.

Geoscientist and former colleague Nick Rollings said Professor Chandra’s dedication and support have changed the face of geospatial science across the Pacific.

He said the Geospatial Family was saddened at the passing of Professor Chandra.

“Rajesh was a passionate supporter of the Geospatial Science Programme at USP both during his term as Professor of Geography and later as VC.

“Rajesh first got GIS rolling in 1994 as a Professor of Geography when the first courses in GIS and remote sensing were offered. He later; as VC in 2014 called for a full degree in Geospatial Science which was offered for the first time in 2015.”

The Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji and The University of Fiji also expressed their grief and sadness on the passing away of Professor Chandra.

In a statement, the Sabha and University of Fiji said Professor Chandra has left a strong professional legacy in local, regional, and international academia.

“Professor Chandra will be held in high esteem by his kin and kith. The Sabha and UniFiji extend their heartfelt condolences to Dr Dharma Chandra and the grieving family.”

Professor Chandra’s body will lie in repose at his Namadi Heights home in Suva for a few minutes today before the procession proceeds to Dignified Cremation for the final rites.

He is survived by his wife and two children.

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