Fiji National University Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba (right) with the Solomon Islands National University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Transform Aqorau

In a landmark event held at Fiji National University’s Nasinu Campus yesterday, Vice Chancellors Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba of Fiji National University (FNU) and Professor Transform Aqorau of Solomon Islands National University (SINU) along with FNU’s Senior Leadership Team convened a meeting to strengthen ties and chart a path for collaborative endeavours.

The meeting yielded significant outcomes aimed at strengthening educational excellence and regional cooperation within the Melanesian sub-region which include the renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between

FNU and SINU which was originally signed in 2013, with a renewed focus on fostering proactive collaboration between the two institutions.

Both universities also pledged to work closely through the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) to address pressing regional issues, including the Security Strategy and the 2050 Blue Pacific Strategy, with a commitment to leveraging their expertise and resources for the collective benefit of the Melanesian sub-region.

Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba, Vice Chancellor of Fiji National University, emphasised the significance of increased collaboration.

“Today’s discussions underscore the importance of partnership and cooperation in addressing the complex challenges facing our region. By working together, not only can we enhance educational opportunities for our students, but we can also contribute meaningfully to the prosperity and well-being of the entire Pacific community,” said Professor Nabobo-Baba.

Discussions underway at the FNU Nasinu Campus

She highlighted that FNU and SINU, in collaboration with the MSG, will undertake joint conferences and produce research papers and publications aimed at advancing Melanesian and Pacific models of sustainability, fostering innovation, and addressing shared challenges.

In recognition of the importance of broader regional engagement, SINU and FNU will extend invitations to the University of Vanuatu, the University of New Caledonia, the Kanak Socialist Liberation Front (FLNKS) and universities in Indonesia to participate in ongoing dialogues and initiatives aimed at supporting Melanesian priorities and advancing national university agendas.

“In our pursuit of supporting Melanesian priorities, FNU and SINU are eager to collaborate with other esteemed institutions. Together, we aim to create a platform for meaningful dialogue and action that aligns with our shared vision for the region’s development,” revealed Professor Nabobo-Baba.

Additionally, as part of his visit as a University visitor, SINU Vice Chancellor, Professor Transform Aqorau will deliver a public lecture titled “Navigating the Future: Strengthening Ocean Governance and Seizing Opportunities in Tuna Management and Deep Seabed Regulation for the Prosperity of Pacific Island Nations” at the CBHTS Lecture Theatre today at FNU’s Nasinu Campus from 2 pm.

This collaborative endeavour between SINU and FNU marks a significant step forward in advancing educational excellence, research innovation, and regional cooperation within the Melanesian sub-region. Both institutions are committed to fostering a vibrant academic community and driving positive change for the prosperity and well-being of all Pacific Island Nations.