The 2024 Pacific Islands Research Symposium (PIHRS), hosted by the Fiji National University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS), began with a vibrant assembly of over 300 participants.
This annual conference that is being held at the Sofitel Resort and Spa in Nadi serves as a key platform for Pacific health researchers to present and discuss their work on the region’s most pressing health issues.
On its first day, the two-day symposium brought together professionals excelling in research, policy, and medicine from across the Pacific, fostering a rich exchange of knowledge and ideas.
Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Professor Maxine Whittaker, highlighted the symposium’s crucial role in showcasing research conducted by Pacific Islanders that directly addresses the unique challenges of the region.
“It has been such a great pleasure being here at the Pacific Islands Health Research Symposium 2024, an event on many people’s calendar,” Professor Whittaker said.
“Already on Day One, I have heard numerous presentations that are not only important for the countries from which the data was collected but for the entire Pacific.
“Research does not create change; research informs the change. However, it is essential to engage people, sustain their interest, and secure support to make that change happen and endure.”
FNU Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Paul Iji, underscored PIHRS’s pivotal role in nurturing a culture of innovation and research, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and impactful interventions.
“As we convene here, I would like to acknowledge the significant strides made in health research within the Pacific Islands,” Professor Iji said.
“This year’s symposium theme, “Investing in Health: Bridging the Knowledge to Behaviour Gaps,” is particularly timely.
“In an era marked by rapid globalisation and shifting health landscapes, it is imperative that research findings are translated into actionable steps that improve health outcomes.
“By bridging the gap between knowledge and behaviour, we can empower individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.”
CMNHS Associate Dean Research, Director of FIPHR, and Chair of the PIHRS Organising Committee, Dr Donald Wilson, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the significance of the symposium in advancing health research and collaboration across the Pacific.
“Research has provided us with a wealth of information and evidence, but translating these findings into actionable behaviours remains a significant challenge. How do we close that gap?” Dr Wilson asked.
“The 2024 PIHRS plays a crucial role in this effort, bringing together like-minded individuals who are deeply involved in health research. This gathering offers a valuable opportunity for participants to collaborate and devise practical solutions to bridge the gap between knowledge and behaviour.”
The conference that will conclude on 03 September, is in partnership with the Australian National University (ANU), Australian Government National Health and Medical Research Council, Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases (GACD), Monash University, Pacific Community (SPC), The George Institute for Global Health, Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Australian Aid, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Revitalising Informal Settlements And Their Environments (RISE), Pacific Women Lead (PWL), University of Sydney, Monash Business School, Telethon Kids Institute, Beyond Essentials Systems, WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention and Management (C-POND) and Mercy Hospital.