Current Research

CDRC

C-POND

PacS-RHRC

CHIPSR

RISE PROJECT

HDR

C-POND

The WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention and Management is a collaborative research centre between the School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences, Fiji National University and Deakin University (WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention), Melbourne, Australia which was established in 2009. Formerly, known as Centre for the Prevention of Obesity and Non-Communicable Diseases (C-POND) who received visibility and recognition by national and international authorities for its work on Non-Communicable Diseases.

The designation as WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention and Management was officiated in 2019 by the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Ifereimi Waqanibete, who witnessed the recognition of the work of a centre that has been strong ally for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services helping to implement the mandated work and achieve its current goals.

C-POND is infact the institution in the Pacific Island Countries to receive WHO Collaborating Centre status that was a major achievement for the College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences. WHO gains access to top institutions worldwide and the institutional capacity to support its work while C-POND will gain greater attention from the public and academic institutions for the health issues they work on.

WHO designated the C-POND as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention and Management, to:

• assist the WHO in supporting the prevention and management of NCDs,
• assist the WHO in supporting countries in the Pacific to develop policies on healthy diets and physical activity; and
• to conduct research on unhealthy diets and physical inactivity to support the implementation of evidence-based policies in line with WHO recommendations.

Collaborating Centre for Obesity Prevention and Management is situated at the Tamavua Campus in Suva, linking it closely with its teaching and training programs and supporting PhDs, Masters and post-graduate students, research projects and training programs.

VISION

Creating the evidence, knowledge exchange and research capacity needed to reverse the Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) and obesity crisis in the Pacific islands.

MISSION

• To conduct solution-oriented research on obesity and NCDs. The focus is on finding the solutions to reduce the very high prevalence and burden of obesity and NCDs in the pacific.
• To disseminate the research findings and translate them into policies and practice. The usual process of research dissemination through publications and conference presentations is accompanied by strong knowledge exchange linkages with government agencies, NGOs, private sector organizations, and communities to translate the research findings from C-POND and international studies into policies and practice in the pacific.
• To build research capacity in obesity and NCD prevention. This includes the supervisor of Masters students and Doctoral students as well as training for research staff.
• To conduct other research-related activities which further the aims of C-POND.

CHIPSR

Background

The Center for Health Information Policy & Systems Research (CHIPSR) was established in 2010, following the increase realization that Health Systems in the Pacific needed evidence based research to ensure the development of regional and national policies that addressed the long term sustainability of health systems, and the provision of equitable health services for the Pacific. The vision of CHIPSR was to be the most admired center of excellence in Health Systems and Health Policy in the Oceania region.

CHIPSR mandate is to perform research in human health and well-being for economically sustainable community and society and its focus is on health financing, health information, and health systems and health policy.

Purpose of CHIPSR Reference Group

CHIPSR Reference Group are intended to provide strategic direction and advice and nurture the development of CHIPSR. Reference Group is intended to be advisory and not managerial and is not expected to consider day to day management and procedural issues. It has no decision-making authority, but can make recommendations for the staff and management of the center to consider.

The purpose or role of the CHIPSR reference group are to:

• Provide strategic advice and direction to the CHIPSR
• Participate in strategic planning meetings for CHIPSR
• Identify and notify CHIPSR abut collaborations and research opportunities and projects within the CHIPSR mandate.
• Provide technical expertise when possible to CHIPSR in the form of advice, mentoring, reviewing of documents, technical working groups, etc.

Terms of membership of the CHIPSR Reference Group

Membership of the CHIPSR Reference Group carries no financial benefits, and membership is based on professional attributes of individuals, rather than their organizational affiliation or country of residence.

Reference group members are expected to be working within the Pacific Islands on health financing, health information, and health systems and health policy.

• Be active in CHIPSR research
• Have a track record of published academic research and research funding
• Be willing to provide their expertise and advice on CHIPSR activities, without any expectation of remuneration or other benefit (such as inclusion in publications or research proposals)
• Participate in at least one teleconference or face to face meeting of the Reference Group per year

The membership of the reference group is not automatically renewed. It will be reviewed annually at the first meeting of each year (to be held in the first quarter).

The Head of CHIPSR will review membership of the reference group prior to this meeting, to check members’ compliance with the requirements. The membership of any person who no longer meets the above requirements will not be renewed. A person whose membership is withdrawn will be informed in writing by the current Reference Group chairperson and Head of CHIPSR. The letter will outline the grounds on which decision to withdraw membership were made.

Members may also withdraw at any time by indicating this in writing to the Reference Group chairperson and the Head of CHIPSR. There is no maximum timeframe for an individual’s membership of the Reference Group providing they continue to meet the above expectations of members.

Meetings

A minimum of at least two Reference Group meetings will be held per year. Where feasible, one meeting should be held face-to-face, in collaboration with a regional event likely to be attended by many of the members.

The Reference Group Chairperson will be responsible for organization of the meeting in collaboration with the Head of CHIPSR, and for informing all members of the date and arrangements for the meeting. The Head of CHIPSR will disseminate an agenda and any related documents to all members prior to the meeting. The Reference Group Chairperson will set the agenda for a meeting in discussion with the Head of CHIPSR.

The secretary and Head of CHIPSR will produce minutes for review by the Chairperson. The Chairperson will then share them with the Reference Group members for any corrections before they are finalized. At the subsequent meeting, the minutes will be endorsed/ accepted.

As the group is not a decision making body, there is no requirement for a minimum quorum for any meeting to take place. However election of the Chair of the Reference Group will require at least 75% of the members to participate. Similarly decisions on new members and renewals of Reference Group members will require at least 50% of reference group members to participate.

Members of the Reference Group may make contributions and comment via face to face meetings, teleconference or via email. Comments and input may be sought at any time from the group, by the CHIPSR team.

Chairperson of the Reference Group

The Chairperson of the Reference Group will be elected each year, at the first meeting of the year, following the review of the members of the Reference Group. All members of the Reference Group (excluding CHIPSR staff) are eligible to make nominations for the chair and to vote for the Chairperson.

The incumbent Chairperson will first call for nominations for chairperson. If there is more than one nomination, then members will be asked to vote (one vote per member). They will email their vote to the CHIPSR secretary who will total and provide response to the reference group (anonymized). The nominee with the most votes will be chairperson for the year. In the case of a face to face meeting, paper-based voting will be used.

CDRC

Background

In the midst of a global pandemic, the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS) has established a centre that targets communicable diseases.  The Communicable Disease Research Centre (CDRC) has been formed through collaboration between CMNHS and the Otago University, Global Health Institute (OGHI) with support from Mercy Hospital in Dunedin, New Zealand. The Centre will produce Pacific led world class research in communicable diseases for the Pacific region. It also aims to enhance the capacity for research training and support for student research specifically in Communicable Diseases. This includes advancing knowledge in the pathogenesis, treatment and prevention of communicable diseases in Pacific island countries. The CDRC presents an important ambition of the CMNHS to not only educate Pacific health workers, but to generate the information that guides health practices in the region.

The CDRC launched virtually on December 3, 2021, with the inauguration of its Reference Group members. The Centre presents an opportunity for the College to position itself as a regional Institution that identifies and addresses priority infectious diseases in the region, whilst also building research training, capacity and quality in coming years through collaborations with Ministries of Health, and organizations and institutes involved in infectious disease research.

Vision:
Pacific led world class infectious diseases research

Mission:
The Communicable Disease Research Centre (CDRC) will work in collaboration with partners to conduct research that addresses the most pressing infectious diseases problems of the Pacific region

Values:
Bula vinaka (wellbeing); Loma vata (harmony); Cakacaka vata (working together); Sautu (good fortune); Cakacaka vaka dodonu (ethical practice); Doudou (boldness);  Uasivi (excellence)

Strategic Goals 2021-2022:

• Establish Foundations at Fiji National University (FNU)
• Establish research and stakeholder collaborations
• Build research capacity with collaborators
• Propose, conduct and publish research projects in communicable disease

Current Project

Click here to view PASS Fiji Study page.

PASS Fiji Study

POPULATION BASED-AGE STRATIFIED ASSESSMENT OF SARS- Cov2 SEROPOSITIVITY IN FIJI

Fiji succumbed to the global COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 experiencing widespread community transmission with large waves of disease caused by different variants of the SARS-CoV2 virus that causes the disease. At the peak of COVID-19 transmission in the country, disease incidence in Fiji was amongst the highest in the world. By mid-2023 a total of 885 COVID-19 deaths had been recorded and although vaccination rates for the first two doses of COVID-19 vaccine were high, uptake of booster doses amongst high-risk groups has been variable. Although COVID-19 hospitalizations and mortality have reduced significantly since 2021 direct measures of population level immunity to the SARS-CoV2 virus are currently lacking. An understanding of population level immunity to SARS-CoV2 variants provides useful information for evaluating the impact of vaccination and informing the need for booster doses of vaccine. Serosurveys provide an opportunity to evaluate to determine exposure to specific antigens and also evaluate antibody responses to these antigens. These surveys identify a sample of the population and collect blood specimens which are then evaluated at a medical laboratory for the presence of specific markers of previous infection and of immunity.

In 2022, with support from the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services, the Communicable Disease Research Centre (CDRC) of the Fiji Institute of Pacific Health Research launched the Population based Age stratified assessment of SARS-CoV2 Seropositivity in Fiji Project or PASS Fiji Project (link to FNU page with launch). This project is funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and will directly assess population exposure and immunity to SARS-CoV2 from 2022-2024 in alignment with the WHO Unity Protocol for SARS-COV2 serosurveys. The PASS Fiji Project includes two separate research studies and the establishment of a serology laboratory for research at the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences. Technical support for the study is being provided by the University of Otago through its existing affiliation with the CDRC and also by the University of Auckland.

In early 2023 the PASS Fiji project began recruitment for its two research studies. The first study involves repeat cross-sectional surveys of the population examining the proportion of Fijians who test positive for previous exposure to SARS-CoV2 and, the strength of antibody responses in these. The second study involves the follow-up of people receiving booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine to determine changes in antibody responses following booster vaccination. In August 2023, the FNU Container Serology Laboratory was opened (Insert link to story/blog). This laboratory facility will be used initially for PASS Fiji studies but will enable medical laboratory research to be conducted at the Fiji National University for other staff and student research. The laboratory also provides a storage facility for biobanking of samples to enhance the research outputs of the institution. In 2024 the PASS Fiji project will release results from the first survey to provide an assessment of population level immunity to SARS-COV2 in Fiji.

PASS Fiji Study Prelim Findings Study English Final

PASS Fiji Infographic Fijian Final

PASS Fiji Infographic English Final

PASS FIJI FIELD BLOGWEBSITE English Final

PASS Fiji Brochure Fijian Final

PASS Fiji Brochure English Final

Contact Details

Meet the CDRC Staff

Professor Philip Hill

Adjunct Professor

Mr. Isireli Koroituku

Research Fellow – CDRC

Dr. Anaseini Ratu

Study Coordinator – PASS Fiji Project – CDRC

Mr. Viliame Qio

Project Manager – COVID-19 Grant

Mr. Uraia Rabuatoka

Senior Lab Technician – PASS Fiji

Mrs. Venina Naigulevu

Research Assistant – Pacific Health Observatory

Ms. Salote Uluinabou

Research Assistant – Long-COVID Study

Ms. Luse Lauci

Research Assistant – PASS Fiji

Ms. Reapi Seru

Research Assistant – PASS Fiji

Ms. Naina Cagi

Lab Techinican – PASS Fiji

Ms. Chloe Ravunisa

Research Assistant – Long-COVID Study

HDR

The College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences (CMNHS) is committed to advancing research and innovation in the medical and health sciences field. Our research initiatives focus on addressing key health challenges in the Pacific region, fostering collaboration, and driving impactful discoveries.

Effect of Heavy Kava (Sp. Piper methysticum) Consumption on Cardiometabolic Biochemical Markers and Disease in Fiji.

We encourage faculty, researchers, and students to contribute to our research efforts. Please take a moment to fill out our survey:

👉 Click here to access the survey form

Your input will help us improve and expand our research initiatives. Thank you for your participation!

PacS-RHRC

The Pacific Sexual & Reproductive Health Research Centre (PacS-RHRC) represents a new and dynamic approach to the Sexual & Reproductive Health (SRH) research issues and challenges of the Pacific Island Countries. In keeping with the Pacific move towards integration of HIV & STI into the larger SRH agenda, PacS-RHRC, in the College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences (CMNHS), Fiji National University, is dedicated to:

• Conducting, facilitating, mentoring and teaching SRH research which will provide evidence-based information and knowledge to influence and support national and regional policies, programs and projects to promote healthier lives for Pacific Islands Countries & Territories (PICTs);
• Developing and increasing research capacity of Pacific Islanders towards sound research that will inform the Pacific response to SRH;
• Identifying through research, evolving best SRH practices for the PICTs which are country-specific, culture and gender-sensitive and sustainable for the Pacific’s future generations.

PacS-RHRC will fulfill its roles to the best of its ability to CMNHS, FNU and the wider Pacific Islands in several ways:

• Conduct, facilitate, provide technical support and teach SRH academic, behavioral surveillance, clinical, and operational research;
• Develop and support SRH research capacity of Pacific Islanders;
• Publish research information as articles in peer-reviewed journals;
• Attract research funding and grants for SRH research independently or with collaborating partners;
• Disseminate research findings widely through national, regional and international workshops, seminars, conferences and publications;
• Develop and maintain partnership with disadvantaged and marginalized communities to provide evidence-based information and knowledge towards appropriate SRH policies and strategies for improved healthy reproductive lives;
• Assist in the translation of research findings into relevant, sustainable outcomes for studied communities;
• Be a repository of SRH research in the region by gathering, storing and disseminating SRH reports to interested individuals, partners and key stakeholders; and,
• Develop and expand SRH Networks within and outside the Pacific region.

PacS-RHRC collaborating Partners

PacS-RHRC will conduct research and disseminate findings independently or work in partnership with collaborating such as academic, technical, donor, NGOs institutions, and other key stakeholders such as governments and special communities in the Pacific Islands Countries & Territories. PacS-RHRC currently enjoys the support and collaboration of a group of regional and international community, technical and academic institutions  such as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) through its Western Pacific Office, Suva; International Planned Parenthood (IPPF) through its Pacific Office in Suva, the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) through its Public Health Program, based in Suva, Pacific AIDS Foundation (PIAF), the Oceania Society for Sexual Health & HIV Medicine (OSSHHM), and the Women’s & Children’s Health Knowledge Hub (Crossmap) a partnership between Burnet Institute’s Centre for International Health, the Menzies School of Health Research in Darwin, and the Centre for International Child Health at the University of Melbourne. PacS-RHRC is keen to develop collaborating networks for the development and advancement of SRH research and capacity at CMNHS, FNU and the Pacific region.

PacS-RHRC Research Areas & Interests

PacS-RHRC is a Pacific regional organisation and will conduct research in the Pacific region on the following issues:

1. Knowing your STI and HIV epidemic
2. Family Planning
3. Safe motherhood (antenatal, perinatal & postnatal) issues & practices
4. Sexual practices of man, women and youths in the Pacific
5. Access & barriers to condoms and other contraceptives uptake
6. Sexual & reproductive health, rights, practices and the law
7. Health care workers as SRH service providers;
8. Sexual Violence and Violence Against Women and Children

CONTACT US:

Dr Kesaia Nawaqaliva
Research Coordinator
Email: kesaia.nawaqaliva@fnu.ac.fj

For more information on what we do, access CMNHS Research online at www.fnu.ac.fj

PPHRC

Pacific Planetary Health Research Centre, known in our Fijian context and socialized as Tadra Vanua. The concept represents our land, our seas, our people, and our culture as an inseparable whole. Tadra, meaning ‘dream,’ joins with Vanua to express our collective dream for a healthier, more resilient future for our region and beyond.

The establishment of Tadra Vanua reflects a recognition that the time is now for the Pacific to lead the world in action-oriented research that integrates human, animal, and environmental health. This aligns with the aspirations of the Healthy Islands Vision, the Blue Pacific 2050 Strategy, SPC’s commitment to planetary health in their 10 year strategy, and the WHO Weaving Health for Families, Communities and Societies in the Western Pacific Region (2025–2029) Strategy. These global and regional mandates converge here, in the Pacific, where our political leaders have consistently called for urgent and unified action on health, climate, and the environment.

Tadra Vanua aspires to serve as a world-class research hub—a home for Pacific-led, place-based, interdisciplinary research and action. It will build on existing successes, such as the RISE and WISH projects, and will leverage partnerships with key regional and international stakeholders. This hub will unite the research capacities of the Fiji Institute of Pacific Health Research and other FNU centres, while working alongside institutions like the Pacific Community, the World Health Organization, and leading universities from Australia, New Zealand, and the national government.

Crucially, Tadra Vanua will not simply generate knowledge; it will drive action. It will work hand in hand with Pacific communities, governments, and civil society, ensuring that research translates into real-world solutions that prioritize the most vulnerable and safeguard our ecosystems and traditions.
Our vision is bold and long-term: a 10-year pathway with an initial five-year growth and proof-of-concept phase.

The objectives are clear:

• Build regional capacity in ecological approaches to health.
• Strengthen and align existing investments like WISH, RISE, and KIWA.
• Serve as a donor coordination hub for Planetary and One Health.
• Lay the foundation for sustainable financing.
• Develop local grant and laboratory management capacities.
• Facilitate Pacific-led research priority-setting.
• Cultivate partnerships for postgraduate training.
• Host the biannual Oceania Planetary Health Forum.
• Reverse the Pacific ‘brain drain’ by nurturing and retaining our brightest minds.

Through this work, Tadra Vanua will position the Pacific as a global exemplar of integrative solutions to the health and environmental crises of our time. It can amplify our voices on the international stage, demonstrating that we are not merely vulnerable islands but innovative leaders driving transformative change.

WISH Fiji

The Watershed Interventions for Systems Health in Fiji- WISH Fiji

Background:

The condition of ecological watersheds affects the health of people and the downstream environments in which they live. Higher incidences of water-related bacterial diseases like typhoid and leptospirosis occur within watersheds that have large tracts of cleared land and higher densities of livestock accessing waterways. In addition, watershed alterations that promote flooding and standing water can accelerate mosquito-borne dengue transmission within rural communities. These same activities increase the amounts of sediments and nutrients entering waterways, with devastating impacts on freshwater and coastal coral reef ecosystems and thus the food, livelihoods and cultural practices of local people. Targeted watershed interventions and water management practices reduce water-related disease risk, improve downstream ecosystem condition and support overall system health.

Purpose:

The Watershed Interventions for Systems Health in Fiji (WISH Fiji) project embraces this integrated approach, working with national and local government, rural communities and the commercial sector to reduce infection risk and improve health and well-being within five river sub-catchments areas in Fiji. We are transforming action from reactive to preventative, improving the ability of integrated systems to predict, prevent, respond and recover from water-related infectious diseases and natural disasters.

Aim:

• Reduce the incidence of water-related diseases in people and downstream coral in five sub-catchments;
• Empower communities to access and maintain their fundamental right to clean water;
• Strengthen connections to place to enhance environmental stewardship and to maintain cultural practice;
• Develop a coordination mechanism for systems health governance between communities and government, and across commercial sectors; and
• Facilitate approaches to sustainably finance and scale interventions nationally.

Scope of work:

The research works in the sub-catchments of Dawasamu, Waibula, Upper Navua, Bureta and Dama to:

• Gathering baseline information on land and water use, water and sanitation infrastructure, water quality, ecosystem condition and recent suspected and confirmed cases of water-related disease;
• Using this information to co-design and adapt targeted management interventions with local communities;
• Working with local leaders and government agencies to improve health and watershed system governance; and
• Monitoring the impact of these changes over time.

Partners:

WISH Fiji is collaboration between the University of Sydney, Edith Cowan University, Fiji National University, and the Wildlife Conservation Society, in partnership with the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Water Authority of Fiji, Pacific Community, UNICEF and World Health Organization.

Link to Official Website: https://wishfiji.sydney.edu.au/

RISE

Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE)

Background

RISE is a transdisciplinary research program working at the intersections of health, environment, and water and sanitation. RISE is trialling a new water sensitive approach to water and sanitation management in 24 informal settlements across Makassar, Indonesia and Suva, Fiji. Working with communities, governments, local leaders and partner institutions, RISE is co-designing location-specific solutions that integrate green infrastructure, such as constructed wetlands, to strengthen the whole-of-life water and sanitation cycle. Underpinned by the emerging discipline of ‘planetary health’, RISE success will be measured by the health and well-being of residents – particularly children under five years of age – and the ecological diversity of the surrounding environment.

Vision

Our vision is to transform human and environmental health in urban informal settlements through water-sensitive revitalisation.

Objectives

RISE aims to enable these communities to:

• Recycle their own wastewater (both blackwater and greywater)
• Harvest rainwater
• Create green space for water cleansing and food cultivation
• Restore natural waterways to encourage diversity
• Reduce vulnerability to flooding and climate change

Benefits:

We anticipate multiple benefits:

• Improve community health
• Fewer infections
• Better intestinal health among children
• Increased food production
• Decreased gender inequalities by providing domestic sanitation facilities and reliable water supplies

Scope of work:

Working with communities, governments, local leaders and partner institutions, RISE aims to demonstrate that nature-based solutions – such as wetlands and bio-filtration gardens – can deliver sustainable, cost-effective health and environmental improvements for those living in informal settlements.

RISE is conducting a randomised control trial (RCT) involving 12 informal settlements in Suva, Fiji and 12 in Makassar, Indonesia. In the first phase of the trial, six settlements in each country are undergoing a water and sanitation upgrade. The impacts of the upgrades on the health of the environment and the health of the communities will be monitored, and compared against the other six settlements in each country.

In the second phase of the trial, the other six settlements in each country will be upgraded.

Partners:

RISE is led by the Monash Sustainable Development Institute, and brings expertise from across six Monash faculties: Art, Design and Architecture; Science; Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences; Engineering; Business and Economics; and Law.

The Wellcome Trust provides core funding for the research components of RISE. The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade funds the infrastructure intervention in Fiji, and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade funds the infrastructure intervention in Indonesia.

In Fiji, the RISE intervention is led by the Ministry of Housing and Community Development and the Water Authority of Fiji, and the research is led by Fiji National University, with support from the University of the South Pacific. Live & Learn Environmental Education implements the RISE Fiji program across both the intervention and research.

Link to Official RISE website https://www.rise-program.org/about#

Functions

Information for PIHRS 2025

Background

The Pacific Islands Health Research Symposium (PIHRS) is an annual conference of Pacific health researchers where they meet to present their research on Pacific health issues and challenges. It was first launched in 2011 to provide a platform for staff and students to showcase their research. Today, the PIHRS has become an annual event for the College of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS), Fiji National University (FNU).

The FNU has continued to embark on efforts and strategies to strengthen the research capacity and profile of its academic staff and students at all the CMNHS. Examples of such strategies are the creation of research portfolios such as the Pro-Vice Chancellor Research (PVCR) and the College Associate Deans of Research (ADRs). Research is increasingly becoming an important aspect of the FNU, and events such as the PIHRS are encouraging our staff and students to engage in research and present their research findings in a larger forum.

Aim of PIHRS

The PIHRS aims to offer a platform for presenting research, research ideas, and methodologies and sharing knowledge. It is hoped that some of these will provide critical challenges and open new spaces for further research that can impact aspects of health care and health services delivery.

PIHRS 2025 Conference Announcement

The 2025 PIHRS – Save the Dates Flyer is in circulation, and the dates are 10th – 12th September 2025.

1. The theme is “Celebrating Research Excellence in the Pacific”, and it provides an opportunity to review current and future policies (and their implementation) which are integral in improving health service delivery and the well-being of the people in the Pacific Island countries. We intend that this conference will attract researchers, academics, policymakers, practitioners, and anyone who has an interest in governance, health service management and politics.

We look forward to receiving your abstract(s) if you have something to share at the PIHRS 2025!

Sub-Themes

• Non-communicable diseases
• Communicable diseases
• Health Systems & Health Policy
• Sexual & Reproductive Health
• Planetary Health

Symposium Date & Time

• 10^th September, 2025 | Time: 9:00am–4:00pm FJT
• 11^th September, 2025 | Time: 9:00am–4:00pm FJT
• 12^th September, 2025 | Time: 9:00am–4:00pm FJT

Call for Abstract:

• Call for abstract opens on 6^th June & closes on 23^rd August 2025

Registration

• Registration opens on 01^st July & closes on 23^rd August 2025

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Points

Continuing Professional Development Certificates will be provided to all registered participants, at a rate of roughly two (2) CPD points per hour of presentations attended, equivalent to 10 CPD points for a whole day’s attendance. This equates to 30 CPD points for the full 3-day attendance.

The PIHRS 2025 brings you a unique experience with speeches from renowned speakers, best presentations, roundtable discussions, networking opportunities and many more.

Click here to view the 2025 program.

PIHRS Information Package

Click here for information on PIHRS Information Package 2025

PIHRS Abstract Submission Guidelines

Please consider the following guidelines, information, tips, terms, and deadlines to facilitate the submission and subsequent follow-up process.

Abstract Guidelines Structure

• The maximum word limit for the abstract is 250 words.
• Please download the abstract template and follow the format carefully.
• Your submission should be submitted in English.
• Please do not include any graphics or tables.
• Submit ONE abstract per area/session of interest. Do not submit the same abstract for more than one session.
• Abstracts, including the list of authors, should be carefully compiled and thoroughly checked before submission to avoid last-minute changes.
• The submission of an abstract carries with it the obligation that it is presented at the conference by the author or, at least, by one of the co-authors. If this is not possible, please withdraw your abstract as early as possible.
• By submitting an abstract, authors accept the license & copyright agreement and the rules of conduct.

Steps to follow for your Abstract Submission

Once you have prepared your abstract according to the above guidelines,

• Submit your abstract via the online portal
• • After submission, you will be notified of the receipt of the abstract via email within three working days.
• For abstract submission enquiries please contact: PIHRS@fnu.ac.fj

Abstract Submission Deadline

• Abstract submissions open on 6^th June 2025
• Please submit your abstract before 23^rd August 2025

Double Blind Peer Reviewing Process

• Your abstract will undergo a double-blind peer review by the PIHRS scientific committee within two to three weeks after its receipt.
• Results of the abstract review will be sent to the author within four weeks of submission.
• The Conference Chair will make the final decision on abstracts.
• Acceptance or rejection of the paper will be sent to you with reviewer comments.

PIHRS Abstract Template

2025 PIHRS Abstract Template for Oral Presentations

Title

Authors listing: (Presenting Author in bold)

Institutional Affiliation and email address (es)

Introduction:  Previous research and/or rationale for performing the study. Include aim and Objective of the study if applicable.

Method: Adequate description of the type of study, study sample and statistical methods used.

Results: Summary of findings, description of analysis, and interpretation of findings.

Discussion: Limitations of the study, implications of the results, and further work.

Word Count:  (indicate number of words: should not Exceed 250 words)

• If selected, [I consent/ do not consent] to having my abstract published in the conference booklet and online.

• I prefer to do an oral presentation. If not selected for an oral presentation, I [am/ am not] willing to do oral presentation.

• I declare that this [abstract/paper] contains information that [has/has not] been presented [fully/partially] at other peer reviewed events, conferences, or published journals. If you have published or presented partially or fully, please provide details.
  

  ---

Instructions: (Delete this section before submission)

• Only abstracts related to Pacific Islands Health-related research will be considered for the symposium.
• Reviews of existing studies or research conducted outside the region are not eligible for this symposium.
• Submit an abstract for oral presentation in the format of the template provided: Font:-Times New Roman 12, Left-justified, single-spaced. Abstracts must not contain tables, figures or photos.
• Ensure correct spelling of Names, and Titles. Names to be written as: First name, Surname. Professional or academic titles can be included and names of authors separated by commas.
• Word count of the body of the abstract (Background-Conclusion) should not exceed 250 words.
• Institutional Affiliation to be presented as: Name of Institution, Country, and Email Contact.
• For consent to print your abstract in the booklet, strike-out the option that does not apply.
• For presentation options, strike-out the option that does not apply.
• For declaration, please strike out the option that does not apply.
• Delete instructions (this section) prior to submission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If your question is not answered below, please get in touch with the PIHRS Secretariat at PIHRS@fnu.ac.fj.

1. What is a conference?

A conference is a meeting, often lasting for a few days, organised on a particular subject or to bring together participants with a common interest. Participants will participate in or attend the PIHRS conference face-to-face and use this platform to present research, research ideas, and methodologies and share knowledge. It is hoped that some of these will address critical challenges and open new spaces for further research that can impact aspects of health care and health services delivery.

2. When is PIHRS 2025?

The PIHRS Conference will be held on the 10th – 12th September 2025. All conference sessions will be based on Fiji Time. There will be recorded presentations for speakers, and a Zoom meeting will be organised for speakers who cannot attend physically.

3. Who should attend?

The PIHRS conference welcomes local and international academics, donors, government ministries, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), technical agencies, the Private Sector, students, and anyone passionate about the theme: “Celebrating Research Excellence in the Pacific”.

4. How do I register for PIHRS 2025?

Registration for the 2025 PIHRS Conference has opened. For online registration, please click here.

5. What happens once I register?

Once you register online, you will receive an email confirmation with detailed instructions on payment of the registration fee, with the invoice generated and sent to your email. Please kindly retain a copy of your payment receipt once you have paid the registration fee.

6. How much do I need to pay to register for the conference?

The conference registration fee is in Fiji Dollars that covers morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea and can be viewed here.

7. Is there funding available to participate in the conference?

Funding is not available for this conference.

8. Where/How can I claim Continuing Professional Development (CDP) credit points?

Registrants can claim Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, and participation certificates, and provide feedback by email to the Secretariat here PIHRS@fnu.ac.fjr

PIHRS Registration 2025

PIHRS Dinner 2025

PIHRS Program 2025

Click here to view the 2025 program.

Call for Abstracts

Attention, all health researchers and enthusiasts!

We are thrilled to announce that the CALL FOR ABSTRACTS for the 2025 Pacific Island Health Research Symposium is now open!

This year’s theme is “Celebrating Research Excellence in the Pacific”, and we cannot wait to hear your innovative ideas and research findings.

Abstract submissions close on 23rd August, 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your work.

For more information, email us at PIHRS@fnu.ac.fj

2023 Proceedings Report

Click Here to View 2023 Proceedings Report.

PUBLICATIONS JOURNAL ARTICLES

Below are list of publication release by our research in respective years

2011

1. Dunford E, Webster J,Metzler A, CzernichowS,NiMhurchu C,Wolmarans P, Snowdon W et al. International collaborative project to compare and monitor the nutritional composition of processed foods. European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation 2011
2. Fotu K. F, Millar. L, Mavoa. H, Kremer. P, Moodie M, Snowdon W, Utter. J, Vivili. P, Schultz.JT, Malakellis.M, McCabe.MP, Roberts.G, Swinburn.B Outcome results for the Ma’alahi Youth Project, a Tongan community-based obesity prevention programme for adolescents. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12:41-50
3. Sacks G, Rayner M, Stockley L, Scarborough P, Snowdon W, Swinburn B. Applications of nutrient profiling: potential role in diet-related chronic disease prevention and the feasibility of a core nutrient-profiling system. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2011; 65:298-306
4. Snowdon W. Letter to the Editor: Challenges of NCDs in the Pacific Islands: the need for evidence and data. Asia Pacific Journal of Public Health 2011; 23(1):110-111
5. Snowdon W, Moodie M,Schultz J,Swinburn B.Modelling of potential food policy interventions in Fiji and Tonga and their impacts on non-communicable disease mortality. Food Policy 2011; 36(597-605)
6. Snowdon W, Negin J, Moodie. M, Building an economic case for food interventions in the Pacific. Pacific Health Dialogue 2011; 16: 24-29
7. Swinburn B, Millar L,Utter J,Kremer P,Moodie M,Mavoa H,Snowdon W, McCabe M, Malakellis M,de Courten M,Waqa G et al. The Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities project: project overview and methods. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 3-11
8. Thow A. M, Snowdon W, et al. The role of policy in improving diets: experiences from the Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities food policy project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 68-74
9. Kremer P, Waqa G, et al. Reducing unhealthy weight gain in Fijian adolescents: results of the Healthy Youth Healthy Communities project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12(2): 29-40
10. McCabe M, Mavoa H, Ricciardelli L, Waqa G, Fotu K, Goundar R. Sociocultural Influences on Body Image among Adolescent Boys from Australia, Fiji and Tonga. Journal of Applied Social Psychology 2011; 41(11): 2708-2722
11. McCabe M, Mavoa H,Ricciardelli l, Waqa G, FotuK,Goundar R et al. Sociocultural agents and their impact on body image and body change strategies among adolescents in Fiji, Tonga, Tongans in New Zealand and Australia. Obesity Reviews 2011;2(2): 61-67
12. Schultz J. T, Moodie M, Mavoa H, Utter J, Snowdon W et al. Experiences and challenges in implementing complex community-based research project: the Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 12-19

2012

1. Dunford E, Webster J,Metzler A, CzernichowS,NiMhurchu C,Wolmarans P, Snowdon W et al. International collaborative project to compare and monitor the nutritional composition of processed foods. European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation 2011
2. Fotu K. F, Millar. L, Mavoa. H, Kremer. P, Moodie M, Snowdon W, Utter. J, Vivili. P, Schultz.JT, Malakellis.M, McCabe.MP, Roberts.G, Swinburn.B Outcome results for the Ma’alahi Youth Project, a Tongan community-based obesity prevention programme for adolescents. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12:41-50
3. Sacks G, Rayner M, Stockley L, Scarborough P, Snowdon W, Swinburn B. Applications of nutrient profiling: potential role in diet-related chronic disease prevention and the feasibility of a core nutrient-profiling system. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2011; 65:298-306
4. Snowdon W. Letter to the Editor: Challenges of NCDs in the Pacific Islands: the need for evidence and data. Asia Pacific Journal of Public Health 2011; 23(1):110-111
5. Snowdon W, Moodie M,Schultz J,Swinburn B.Modelling of potential food policy interventions in Fiji and Tonga and their impacts on non-communicable disease mortality. Food Policy 2011; 36(597-605)
6. Snowdon W, Negin J, Moodie. M, Building an economic case for food interventions in the Pacific. Pacific Health Dialogue 2011; 16: 24-29
7. Swinburn B, Millar L,Utter J,Kremer P,Moodie M,Mavoa H,Snowdon W, McCabe M, Malakellis M,de Courten M,Waqa G et al. The Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities project: project overview and methods. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 3-11
8. Thow A. M, Snowdon W, et al. The role of policy in improving diets: experiences from the Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities food policy project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 68-74
9. Kremer P, Waqa G, et al. Reducing unhealthy weight gain in Fijian adolescents: results of the Healthy Youth Healthy Communities project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12(2): 29-40
10. McCabe M, Mavoa H, Ricciardelli L, Waqa G, Fotu K, Goundar R. Sociocultural Influences on Body Image among Adolescent Boys from Australia, Fiji and Tonga. Journal of Applied Social Psychology 2011; 41(11): 2708-2722
11. McCabe M, Mavoa H,Ricciardelli l, Waqa G, FotuK,Goundar R et al. Sociocultural agents and their impact on body image and body change strategies among adolescents in Fiji, Tonga, Tongans in New Zealand and Australia. Obesity Reviews 2011;2(2): 61-67
12. Schultz J. T, Moodie M, Mavoa H, Utter J, Snowdon W et al. Experiences and challenges in implementing complex community-based research project: the Pacific Obesity Prevention in Communities project. Obesity Reviews 2011; 12: 12-19

2013

1. Snowdon W. The role of policy in improving public health. Fiji Journal of Public Health 2013; 1(2)
2. Snowdon W. Guest Editorial. Fiji Journal of Public Health 2013; 1(2)
3. Waqa G, Mavoa H, Snowdon W. The Translational Research on Obesity Prevention In Communities: Evidence Informed Decision Making in Fiji. Fiji Journal of Public Health 2013; 1(2)
4. Snowdon, W & Thow A.M.Trade policy and obesity prevention: Challenges and innovation in the Pacific Islands. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (2): 150-8. doi: 10.1111/obr.12090
5. Ni Mhurchu C, Vandevijvere S, Waterlander W, Thornton L, Kelly B, Cameron A, Snowdon W, Swinburn B, for INFORMAS. Monitoring the availability of healthy and unhealthy foods and non-alcoholic beverages in community and consumer retail food environments globally. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1): 108-19. doi: 10.1111/obr.12080
6. Friel S, Hattersley L, Snowdon W , Thow AM, Lobstein T, Sanders D , Barquera S, Mohan S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Neal B, Sacks G, Sanders D, Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Walker C for INFORMAS. Monitoring the impacts of trade agreements on food environments. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1): 120-34. doi: 10.1111/obr.12081
7. Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Sacks G, Kraak V, Snowdon W, Hawkes C, Barquera S, Friel S, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Rayner M, Sanders D, Walker C, for INFORMAS. Monitoring and benchmarking government policies and actions to improve the healthiness of food environments: a proposed Government Healthy Food Environment Policy Index. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1): 24-37. doi: 10.1111/obr.12073
8. Neal B, Sacks G, Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Dunford E, Snowdon W, Webster J, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Rayner M, Sanders D, Walker C, for INFORMAS.  Monitoring the levels of important nutrients in the food supply. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1): 49-58. doi: 10.1111/obr.12075
9. Swinburn B, Sacks G, Vandevijvere S, Kumanyika S, Lobstein T, Neal B, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Rayner M, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Walker C, for INFORMAS (International Network for Food and Obesity / non-communicable diseases Research, Monitoring and Action Support): overview and key principles. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (10):1-12. doi: 10.1111/obr.12087
10. Brinsden H, Lobstein T, Jane Landon J, Kraak V, Sacks G, Kumanyika S, Swinburn B, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly  B, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Rayner M, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Vandevijvere S, Walker C, for INFORMAS. Monitoring policy and actions on food environments: rationale andoutline of the INFORMAS policy engagement and communication strategies. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):13-23. doi: 10.1111/obr.12072
11. Sacks G, Swinburn B, Kraak V, Downs S, Walker C, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Rayner M, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Vandevijvere S, Walker C, for INFORMAS. A proposed approach to monitor private sector policies and practices related to food environments, obesity and non-communicable disease prevention. Obesity Reviews 2013;14 Suppl (1):38-48. doi: 10.1111/obr.12074
12. Kelly B, King L, Baur L, Rayner M, Lobstein T, Monteiro C, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Neal B, Sacks G, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Walker C,for INFORMAS. Monitoring food and non-alcoholic beverage promotions to children. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):49-58. doi: 10.1111/obr.12075
13. Rayner M, Wood A, Lawrence M, Ni Mhurchu C, Albert J, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Neal B, Sacks G, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Walker C for INFORMAS. Monitoring the health-related labelling of foods and non-alcoholic beverages in retail settings. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):70-81. doi: 10.1111/obr.12077
14. Lee A, Mhurchu CN, Sacks G, Swinburn B, Snowdon W, Vandevijvere S, Hawkes C, L’Abbé M, Rayner M, Sanders D, Barquera S, Friel S, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Neal B, Walker C for INFORMAS. Monitoring the price and affordability of foods and diets globally. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):82-95. doi: 10.1111/obr.12077
15. L’Abbé M, Schermel A, Minaker L, Kelly B, Lee A, Vandevijvere S, Twohig P, Barquera S, Friel S, Hawkes C, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Ma J, Macmullan J, Neal B, Sacks G, Sanders D, Snowdon W, Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Walker C for INFORMAS. Monitoring foods and beverages provided and sold in public sector settings. Obesity Reviews 2013;14 Suppl(1):96-107. doi: 10.1111/obr.12079
16. Swinburn B, Vandevijvere S, Kraak V, Sacks G, Snowdon W, Hawkes C, Barquera S, Friel S, Kelly B, Kumanyika S, L’Abbé M, Lee A, Lobstein T, Macmullan J Ma, Mohan S, Monteiro C, Neal B, Rayner M, Sanders D, Walker C, for INFORMAS. Monitoring and benchmarking government policies and actions to improve the healthiness of food environments: a proposed Government Healthy Food Environment Policy Index. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):24-37. doi: 10.1111/obr.12073
17. Vandevijvere S, Monteiro C, Krebs-Smith SM, Lee A, Swinburn B, Kelly B, Neal B, Snowdon W,  Sacks G for INFORMAS. Monitoring and benchmarking population diet quality globally: a step-wise approach. Obesity Reviews 2013; 14 Suppl (1):135-149. doi: 10.1111/obr.12082
18. Hope S, Snowdon W, et al. Junk Food’ Promotion to Children and Adolescents in Fiji. Fiji Journal of Public Health 2013;2(1):27-35
19. Raj A, Drauna M, Snowdon W. Exposure to Advertising of ‘Junk food’ in Fiji. Fiji Journal of Public Health 2013;2(1):36-37
20. Waqa G, Mavoa M, Snowdon W. Knowledge brokering between researchers and policy makers in Fiji to develop policies to reduce obesity: a process evaluation. Implementation Science 2013; 8(74). 1ST July 2013.
21. Wate J, Snowdon W, Millar L, Nichols M, Mavoa H, Goundar R, Kama A, Swinburn B. Adolescent dietary patterns in Fiji and their relationships with standardized Body Mass Index. International Journal for Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity 2013; 10(45). 9th April 2013.
22. Snowdon W, Malakellis M, Millar L, Swinburn B. Ability of body mass index and waist circumference to identify risk factors for non-communicable disease in the Pacific Islands. Obesity Research & Clinical Practice 2014;8(1):35-45. doi.org/10.1016/j.orcp.2012.06.005
23. Dunford E, Webster J, Metzler A.B, Czernichow S, Ni Mhurchu C, Wolmarans P, Snowdon W, Abbe M, Li N, Maulik P.K, Barquera S, Schoi V, Allemandi L, Samman N, Wenzel de Menezes E, Hassell T, Ortiz J, Salazar de Ariza.J, Rahman A.R, de ῀Nunez  L, Garcia M.R, van Rossum C, Thiam L.M, MacGregor G, Bruce N, The Food Monitoring Group. “Progress with a global branded food composition database.” Food Chemistry 2013;140(3):451-457
24. Snowdon W, Raj A, Reeve E, Guerrero R, Fesaitu J, Cateine K, Guignet C. Processed foods available in the Pacific Islands. BMC Globalization and Health 2013; 9:53. doi: 10.1186/1744-8603-9-53
25. Sluyter J, Scragg R, Plank L, Waqa G, Fotu K, Swinburn B. Sizing the association between lifestyle behaviours and fatness in a large, heterogeneous sample of youth of multiple ethnicities from 4 countries. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity 2013. doi:10.1186/1479-5868-10-115
26. Friel S, Gleeson D, Thow A-M, LaBonte R, Stuckler D, Kay A, Snowdon W.  A new generation of trade policy: potential risks to diet-related health from the trans pacific partnership agreement. Globalization and Health 2013; 9(46).
27. Petersen S, Moodie M, Mavoa H, Waqa G, Goundar R, Swinburn B. Relationship between overweight and health-related quality of life in secondary school children in Fiji: results from a cross-sectional population based study. International Journal for Obesity. 2013 Nov 15. doi: 10.1038/ijo.2013.212.
28. Waqa G, Moodie M, Schultz J and Swinburn B. Process evaluation of a community-based intervention program: Healthy Youth Healthy Communities, adolescent obesity prevention project in Fiji. Journal of Global Health Promotion 2013 Dec; 20(4):23-34. doi: 10.1177/1757975913501909.
29. Webster J, Snowdon W, Moodie M, et al. (2014) Cost-effectiveness of reducing salt intake in the Pacific Islands: protocol for a before and after intervention study. BMC Public Health 14: 107.
30. Hawkes C, Thow AM, Downs S, Ling A, Ghosh-Jerath S, Snowdon W, Morgan E, Thiam I, Jewell J. 2014. Identifying effective food systems solutions for nutrition and noncommunicable diseases: creating policy coherence in the fats supply chain. SCN News 40; 39-47.

2014

1. Waqa G, Snowdon W, and Raj A. (2014) Equity in services for non-communicable diseases: How can Fiji’s health systems respond better?. Fiji Journal of Public Health, 3(1):41-42.
2. Kumar K, Snowdon W, Ram S Khan, Cornelius M, Tukana I, Reid S (2014). “Descriptive analysis of diabetes-related amputations at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Fiji, 2010–2012.” Public Health in Action 4(3): 155-158.
3. Sacks G, Mialon M, Vandevijvere S, Trevena H, Snowdon W, Crino M, Swinburn B (2014). “Comparison of food industry policies and commitments on marketing to children and product (re)formulation in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.” Critical Public Health: 1-21.
4. Snowdon W (2014). “Sugar-sweetened beverages in Pacific Island countries and territories: problems and solutions?” Pacific Health Dialog 20(1): 43-46
5. Webster J, Snowdon W, Moodie M, et al. Cost-effectiveness of reducing salt intake in the Pacific Islands: protocol for a before and after intervention study. BMC Public Health 2014, 14:107
6. Hawkes C, Thow AM, Downs S, Ling A, Ghosh-Jerath S, Snowdon W, Morgan E, Thiam I, Jewell J. Identifying effective food systems solutions for nutrition and noncommunicable diseases: creating policy coherence in the fats supply chain. SCN News 2014, 40:9-47
7. Sluyter J., Scragg R., Waqa G., Fotu K., Swinburn B. The utility of serving size in the measurement of soft drink consumption. Pacific Health Dialog. 2014; 20(1) 67-72

2015

1. Waqa G, McCool J, Snowdon W, Freeman B (2015). Adolescents Perceptions of Pro-and Antitobacco Imagery and Marketing: Qualitative Study of Students from Suva, Fiji. Hindawi Publishing Corporation, BioMed Research International: Article ID 602635, 7 pages. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2015/602635
2. Melissa M, Boyd Swinburn, Jillian Wate, Isimeli Tukana, Gary Sack. Analysis of the corporate political activity of major food industry actors in Fiji. Globalization and Health. 2016; 12:18.

2016

Melissa M, Boyd Swinburn, Jillian Wate, Isimeli Tukana, Gary Sack (2016). The Fijian Government has established a partnership with the Fiji Food Industry Group to help combat and reduce Non communicable diseases: influence of the food industry on public health policies and outcomes in Fiji”. Globalization and Health. 12: 18; doi: 10.1186/s12992-016-0158-8

2010

1. Snowdon W, Lawrence M, Schultz J, Vivili P, Swinburn B. Evidence-based policy solutions to promote a healthy food environment for the Pacific Islands. Public Health Nutr. 2010; 13(6):886-92
2. Snowdon W, Potter J-L, Swinburn B, Schultz J, Lawrence M. Prioritizing policy interventions to improve diets? Will it work, can it happen, will it do harm? Health prom Int. 2010; 25(1)
3. Thow AM, Snowdon W. The effect of trade and trade policy on diet and health in the Pacific Islands. In: Hawkes C, Blouin C, Henson S, Drager N, Dubé L, editors. Trade, Food, Diet and Health: Perspectives and Policy Options. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell 2010

FNU CMNHS Regional COVID-19 Response

1.0 Background

The COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing and still unpredictable given the continued emergence of variants and widespread relaxation of public health measures. In addition, recent evidence on the waning effect of COVID-19 vaccines and continued vaccine resistance in the Pacific mean that Pacific populations will continue to remain vulnerable to future wave of disease. In June 2021, DFAT endorsed a funding agreement to support the implementation of the activity “FNU CMNHS COVID-19 Response, under the College’s Pacific Regional strategy.

The main purpose of the strategy and the funding is to enable the FNU through CMNHS to deliver relevant COVID-19 related and accredited academic programs, short trainings and conduct COVID-19 related research in Fiji and the region. DFAT’s support will assist the College’s regional response to COVID-19 as well as prepare it for future pandemics; and will significantly assist the institution to respond to the health training and research needs of the region during COVID-19. Under Grant 1, the CMNHS will be able to address the emerging training needs of the region with regards to the disease, and its management in Pacific settings. In addition, the College will identify challenges specific to learning and teaching during a global pandemic and create learning systems that are pandemic resilient. Funding of staff research projects in COVID-19 will stimulate the growth of Pacific based health research and provide knowledge on the impact of COVID-19 in Pacific health care settings. Grant 2 will provide direct funding to build and enhance Pacific driven research in COVID-9 through the establishment of a dedicated facility for laboratory-based communicable disease research at the CMNHS. Through this grant, serological surveys of the Fijian population will directly inform COVID-19 interventions for the country, specifically the need and timing of vaccine boosters and, possibly similar surveys throughout the region.

2.0 Key Objectives

The DFAT aid program has provided core budget support to CMNHS for many years. The DFAT funding is aligned with the key objectives of the FNU CMNHS Regional Response Strategy, primarily focused on enhancing the capacity of the CMNHS to: –

• Respond to health training needs of its current students and staff during COVID and develop relevant Learning & Teaching protocols, modes, and mediums for Learning & Teaching especially for programmes which include community engagement and clinical
• Support Learning & Teaching (L&T) planning, access and hosting of short courses and research needs of the region; and
• Conduct relevant COVID-19 related research in Fiji and the region to inform and strengthen existing policies, protocols, guidelines, practice in support of current and future health professional cadres.

3.0 Key Outcomes

There are four key outcomes for the project, two of which are related to Learning and Teaching at the College (Outcomes 1 & 2) while the remaining two (Outcomes 3B, and 4) are research based. Outcomes 1, 2, 3B and 4 are projects based at CMNHS. FNU CMNHS Regional COVID-19 Response comprises of Outcome 1, 2, 3B and 4:

• Outcome 1: Build future-looking resilient education and training systems for the Pacific health workforce based on lessons learnt from COVID-19 (Learning & Teaching).
• Outcome 2: Enhance in-country education and training using learning technologies and other resources to meet desired learning outcomes (Learning & Teaching).
• Outcome 3B: Enhance communicable disease research initiatives for public protection, pandemic adaptation & preparedness, future communicable disease screening and testing using evidence gathered from COVID-19 pandemic (Research), and
• Outcome 4: Support and strengthen the Pacific Health Observatory within FIPHR to be a resource hub for health information, policy, and vanguard for PICs health research, (Research).

FNU CMNHS & Fiji MHMS Impact Study: (COVID-19 Population based age-stratified assessment of SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity in Fiji (PASS Fiji), 2022-2024). The FNU CMNHS/FIJI MHMS comprises of Outcome 3A:

• Outcome 3A: is a research partnership between the College (through the Fiji Institute of Pacific Health Research) and the Ministry of Health & Medical Services, (Fiji).

4.0 Implementing Team

(i) Governance

The Project Advisory Group (PAG) is the overall governance mechanism for the project. Annual meetings will be convened to review and endorse work plans and review progress of activity implemented to ensure the program activities remain relevant to learning and teaching and research study. Quality assurance will be discussed through technical expert advice and oversight on the implementation of the project and support the monitoring the progress activities towards completion.

The Technical Advisory Group and the Steering Committee will provide technical guidance oversight and support to progress study activities towards completion for the COVID-19 Population based age-stratified assessment of SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity in Fiji (PASS Fiji), 2022-2024

(ii) FNU CMNHS Regional COVID-19 Response

The team consist of support and technical staff for the following:-

Grant 1: Project Admin Officer, Senior Research Officer – CDRC; Research Coordinator – PHO, Research Assistant and temporary staff for the 2 studies: Research Officer – LIFCO-DP, and Research Coordinators, Research Assistant, Data Assistant and transcribers for the 4 country Health Care Workers study.

Grant 2: Study Coordinator and Senior Project Officer and temporary staff for the study (Data Manager, Research Assistant, Laboratory Technicians, Nurses and Phlebotomist).

5.0 Partners:

The ‘FNU CMNHS REGIONAL COVID-19 RESPONSE’ is funded by the Commonwealth of Australia, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade(DFAT) in partnership with the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS), Fiji National University (FNU).