Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa has launched the Pacific Academy of Sciences and welcomed its 12 Foundation Fellows.
“Today’s challenges transcend borders,” said Fiame.
“They require international collaboration among scientists and experts of all disciplines to curate knowledge and scientific evidence that can inform public policy and guide our actions,” she said.
“The launch of the Pacific Academy of Sciences marks an important milestone in establishing a regional collaboration in the pursuit of knowledge for a prosperous and thriving Pacific Islands region.”
University of Auckland’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific Professor Jemaima Tiatia-Siau has been named as one of 12 Pacific Academy of Sciences Foundation Fellows.
“It is such a great honour,” Tiatia-Siau said.
“This is history in the making. Until now, the Pacific region had yet to establish an internationally recognised body of scientists. Now we have the opportunity to bring Pacific scholars together to grow generations to come, which can only be a positive development.”
“The Pacific Academy of Sciences will certainly increase the visibility of Pacific-led research and showcase our scholarly talent across the Pacific region in sciences and academia. Some specific challenges are unique to the Pacific region, so there is huge potential and opportunity with the Pacific Academy of Sciences for our researchers to be impactful.”
University of Auckland Associate Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga co-chaired the Pacific Academy establishment committee and has been a strong voice championing it.
“This is a historic moment for Pacific scholars and science. The Academy will enable and support opportunities for young people and contribute to decision making for the region.
The Secretariat of the Academy will be based at the National University.
International Science Council President Emeritus Professor Sir Peter Gluckman said initial attempts to garner interest in an academy for the Pacific were unsuccessful.
However, in his role as ISC President he approached Sir Collin Tukuitonga and Professor Teatulohi Matainaho to explore the need and value of an academy.
He thanked Atsushi Sunami, President of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, the Lounsbery Foundation who responded so positively and the Australian Academy of Sciences, the ISC’s regional focal point supported by the Australian government for their commitment.
The 12 eminent Pacific scholars were elected to lead the Academy to deliver on its purpose. Foundation Fellow and newly appointed Pacific Academy of Sciences President, Professor Teatulohi Matainaho from Papua New Guinea said an academy would create opportunities for young scientists in the region…. PACNEWS/SAMOA OBSERVE
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