𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞
𝟏-𝟎𝟕-𝟐𝟒
Photo caption: From left to right, Dr Eric Katovai (Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic (PVCA Ag), Professor Transform Aqorau (SINU Vice-Chancellor), Professor Jean-Marie Fotsing (University of New Caledonia Representative)
Last Friday, 28 June, a significant meeting took place between the staff of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and the University of New Caledonia. Key representatives from SINU included Dr Eric Katovai, Acting Pro Vice Chancellor Academic, Dr. Hugo Bugoro and Alex Makini from the Office of Research, as well as Vice Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau. Representing the University of New Caledonia was Professor Jean-Marie Fotsing.
The discussions centered on a groundbreaking proposal aimed at increasing and strengthening the scientific skills of future PhD students and young researchers from Vanuatu, in collaboration with the National University of Vanuatu and SINU. The focus of the project is on resilience, disruption, and adaptation to climate change in the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.
This collaborative project seeks to develop and implement cross-disciplinary research tools for the collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data. The primary areas of research will include agricultural occupation and the exploitation of natural resources. The ultimate goal is to understand human and societal adaptations to climate change and the preservation of biodiversity.
Professor Transform Aqorau highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating, “This collaboration marks a pivotal step in enhancing our collective scientific capabilities and addressing the critical challenges posed by climate change. By fostering a strong network of researchers and sharing our expertise, we aim to develop innovative solutions that will not only benefit our nations but also contribute to the global understanding of climate resilience and biodiversity preservation.”
The meeting underscored the commitment of both institutions to advancing research and educational opportunities that will empower the next generation of scientists and researchers in the Pacific region. This initiative is expected to yield valuable insights and drive impactful actions towards climate change adaptation and sustainability.
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