Jacob Maiono has recently earned four significant university degrees from the University of Otago in New Zealand. At 45 years old and originally from Cikobia, Maiono has a distinguished career as a lecturer at the same university. His journey to New Zealand began in 2006 when he moved there to pursue sports.
Maiono has had a successful athletic career, having played for the Rewa football team and the Tailevu Knights, which helped him secure a sports scholarship in New Zealand.
His academic achievements include a Bachelor of Commerce in Management, a Master of Sustainable Business, a Postgraduate Certificate in Health Sciences, and a Doctor of Philosophy focused on ‘Sustainable Land Development in Fiji.’ He completed his PhD program in 2020, which examined Indigenous perceptions of sustainable land development in Fiji to mark 50 years of the nation’s independence.
Maiono emphasizes the importance of reflecting on the past 50 years of independence and how it shapes Indigenous perspectives on land use and management. He encourages a return to communities to consult on land usage after this significant timeframe.
Through his doctoral research, he aims to address the gaps in understanding sustainable land use in Fiji, noting that many are unaware of the Indigenous laws governing land ownership and management.
His research focuses on two major themes: “land ecology” in relation to Indigenous land management and “political ecology.” He also plans to explore Cicia Island, dubbed the “Organic Island,” as part of his studies.
Currently, Maiono is teaching at the University of Otago Business School and aims to raise awareness of the issues faced by Indigenous people through his research.
He advocates for community engagement about land use, urging residents to consider the future state of their communities over the next 50 years, emphasizing the preservation and sustainable management of land amidst ongoing challenges.