This paper is based on a research conducted to identify the challenges faced by a cohort of students enrolled in an accelerated undergraduate degree programme. The Science Teachers Accelerated Programme is an up-skilling initiative that the University of the South Pacific has undertaken in partnership with the Samoan Government which is the first of its kind ‘accelerated programme’ in the Pacific region. The 63 students enrolled in this programme who have been categorized as non-traditional students are aged 24 to 52 years, and are full time teachers in Samoan secondary schools. The findings were obtained through surveys conducted in the form of questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. An array of challenges identified to be encountered by these uniquely placed students is in relation to ICT, geographical location and socio-cultural facets. This presentation includes successes and challenges faced and articulates recommendations to address these emergent issues
