Strengthening partnerships for resilience in the Pacific Islands region
Last week, representatives from the University of Newcastle attended the 31st Meeting of our partner organisation, the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).
The purpose of the visit was to enhance strategic engagement, foster collaboration, promote cooperation, and strengthen partnerships aimed at addressing the environmental, economic, and social challenges being faced in the region.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research & Innovation (DVCRI) Zee Upton, Professor Alan Broadfoot, and Pacific Engagement Coordinator, Dr. Sascha Fuller, played pivotal roles in highlighting the University's research collaborations, mobility, and engagement with Professor Broadfoot invited to outline the success of the University's Pacific Node initiative at the Partner’s Dialogue.
While delivering his presentation, Partnering for a resilient Pacific Region, Professor Broadfoot outlined the PhD projects currently underway in the region focused on plastic pollution, invasive species management, climate resilience, coral restoration and environmental remediation. The Pacific Node was established in 2019 in partnership with SPREP.
"The success of the program is due to our effective partnerships and the collaborative effort with local communities, as we collectively strive to make lasting impact across critical sectors; fostering climate resilience, preserving ecosystems and biodiversity, managing waste, curbing pollution, and upholding environmental governance,” Professor Broadfoot states.
While in Samoa, a partnership between the University of Newcastle and the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS) was made official with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding. This is another important milestone in the University’s ongoing commitment to the Pacific region.
At the core of this partnership lies a shared vision for advancement in scientific research, education, and capacity development. Through targeted capacity-building initiatives, this partnership will help nurture the region's talent and equip scientists with the tools needed to address local and global challenges.
The exchange of scientific information, research methodologies, and educational materials is set to spark innovation and drive progress. Through this partnership, the University hopes to develop a platform for research advancement that can make a significant impact, not only in Samoa but across the Pacific region.
The partnership extends to joint research projects, capacity-building programs, and pilot initiatives designed to expand theoretical knowledge to practical application. By facilitating these collaborative endeavors, the University is positioning itself to tackle complex issues such as climate change, food insecurity and sustainable development.
As part of our commitment to the region, during the SPREP meeting, the University announced a new round of PhD scholarships, Masters research and Masters coursework pathways for mid-senior level public servants and SPREP employees, a strategic initiative to support our partners in the region. Our student mobility to the region through study tours and internships is increasing, and our partnerships with SPREP and the Moata’a community through the Moata’a Living Lab is integral to this.
Collectively, these initiatives provide opportunities for mutual exchange where students at the University and staff from our partner institutions share knowledge and apply it to the Pacific context to support community resilience.
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.