The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) is proud to announce that Vice Chancellor, Professor Transform Aqorau, has been appointed as a Foundation Fellow of the newly established Pacific Academy of Sciences. This prestigious appointment recognises Professor Aqorau’s significant contributions to the field of fisheries law, regional governance, and his enduring commitment to the advancement of scientific research in the Pacific region.
The official launch of the Pacific Academy of Sciences took place today at the National University of Samoa during a side-event of the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Apia, Samoa. The Academy has been created to promote the study and application of natural and social sciences, humanities, indigenous knowledge, and technology, with a mission to address the challenges and opportunities of the Pacific Islands region and beyond.
Professor Aqorauโs induction as a Foundation Fellow comes as part of the Academyโs vision to build a network of distinguished scholars who will guide and lead regional collaboration on scientific research for the benefit of Pacific Island communities. This fellowship highlights Professor Aqorauโs role as a key advocate for the integration of indigenous knowledge systems with modern science to enhance policy development in the Pacific, particularly in areas related to fisheries governance, sustainability, and economic development.
The Prime Minister of Samoa, Hon. Fiame Dr Naomi Mataโafa, highlighted the importance of such regional collaboration in her remarks delivered by Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio: “Todayโs challenges transcend borders. They require international collaboration among scientists and experts of all disciplines to curate knowledge and scientific evidence that can inform public policy and guide our actions.”
The Academy is seen as a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the capacity of Pacific nations to address global challenges through evidence-based science and actionable knowledge. In her congratulatory statement, Professor Aqorau remarked: “It is both a humbling and exhilarating honour to be among the Foundation Fellows of the Pacific Academy of Sciences. I am committed to using this platform to strengthen the role of science, indigenous knowledge, and policy innovation in the Pacific. This will undoubtedly have a transformative impact on our young scholars and leaders across the region.”
In addition to Professor Aqorau, eleven other eminent scholars from across the Pacific region have been elected as Foundation Fellows, representing a wide range of disciplines including the natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. The Academy will work closely with regional institutions, international bodies, and local communities to ensure that scientific research is aligned with the unique needs and priorities of the Pacific.
As the Vice Chancellor of SINU, Professor Aqorauโs appointment as a Foundation Fellow further strengthens the Universityโs position as a leading centre of learning and research in the Solomon Islands and underscores its commitment to contributing to regional and global conversations on science, policy, and governance.
The Pacific Academy of Sciences is headquartered in Apia, Samoa, and will provide opportunities for emerging and established scholars in the region to collaborate on key research initiatives that can drive sustainable development, foster innovation, and inspire future generations of Pacific scientists and policymakers.
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-SINU Press release
