In a momentous development for the Pacific Islands, the region has officially established its first Pacific Academy of Sciences, marking a significant milestone in the elevation of Pacific-led research and knowledge.
Launched in Apia, Samoa, on 22 October by Prime Minister Afioga Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa, the academy aims to amplify the region’s scientific voice on pressing global issues, including climate change and environmental sustainability.
Speaking at an official event during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), Prime Minister Mata’afa hailed the academy as a crucial step towards fostering international collaboration, stating,
“Today’s challenges transcend borders. They require cooperation among scientists and experts across disciplines to curate knowledge that informs public policy and guides action.”
The academy’s twelve Foundation Fellows, drawn from across the Pacific, represent the region’s best and brightest scientific minds.
Among them is Professor Jemaima Tiatia-Siau, Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific at the University of Auckland, who expressed her pride in the academy’s creation.
“Until now, the Pacific had yet to establish an internationally recognised body of scientists. Now we have the opportunity to bring Pacific scholars together to nurture future generations, which can only be a positive development.”
Professor Tiatia-Siau highlighted the importance of increasing visibility for Pacific-led research and addressing challenges unique to the region.
“The Pacific Academy of Sciences will certainly increase the visibility of Pacific-led research and showcase our scholarly talent across the sciences and academia. The potential for impact is enormous.”
The academy’s formation responds to long-standing gaps in scientific infrastructure in the Pacific. With the establishment of the academy, there is now a dedicated platform to promote evidence-based research and foster a pipeline of emerging scientists who can contribute to regional and global decision-making.
Sir Peter Gluckman, President of the International Science Council and the first honorary fellow of the Pacific Academy of Sciences, emphasised the critical role the academy will play in addressing global scientific challenges.
“We truly welcome you into the fellowship of academies and global scientific bodies. We want you to bring a strong Pacific voice to global scientific issues.”
The Pacific Academy of Sciences will promote the study and application of natural and social sciences, humanities, Indigenous knowledge systems, and technology, for the benefit of the Pacific region and beyond.
The University of the South Pacific (USP) congratulated Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Education), Prof. Jito Vanualailai, on his election as a Foundation Fellow of the newly established Pacific Academy of Sciences.
The Academy will provide a platform for regional scholars to collaborate on research programmes and offer science-based advice to support the Pacific Islands and other regions of the world in addressing their most pressing needs.
Foundation Fellow and newly appointed academy president, Prof. Teatulohi Matainaho from Papua New Guinea, outlined the academy’s commitment to supporting young scientists in the Pacific.
“The academy will provide mentorship and foster collaboration between peers regionally and globally, creating opportunities for career development for our young people.”
As the governing council of the academy prepares for its first meeting, there is a palpable sense of anticipation about what lies ahead for Pacific science. Prime Minister Mata’afa summed up the moment with optimism,
“Now, more than ever, the Pacific Islands have a mechanism to draw on our region’s unique knowledge and influence global decisions for the benefit of all.”
The newly established Pacific Academy of Sciences joins a global network of learned academies, such as the Australian Academy of Science and New Zealand’s Royal Society Te Apārangi, which supported the academy’s formation alongside the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.
The launch has been facilitated by the National University of Sāmoa and the International Science Council Regional Focal Point for Asia and the Pacific, led by the Australian Academy of Science with the support of the Royal Society of New Zealand Te Apārangi and Sasakawa Peace Foundation.
The academy will be based in Samoa and supported by a small secretariat to manage its operations. It will serve as a hub for scholars, researchers, experts, and Indigenous knowledge holders across diverse scientific and humanities disciplines, providing a platform for collaboration and contributing science advice to global and regional efforts.
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