Academic research is essential for the advancement of our region, providing vital ideas, truths, and data that help frame solutions to various challenges.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance emphasized this point during the launch of a book he co-edited, titled “Waves of Change: Media, Peace, and Development in the Pacific,” at the Pacific International Media Conference in Suva last night.
Biman Prasad, one of the co-editors of “Waves of Change,” stated that the book blends experiential wisdom with research to discuss development and progress across the region. The work is also co-edited by USP Head of Journalism Dr. Shailendra Singh and former USP Lecturer Dr. Amrit Sarwal.
Prasad pointed out that in an information-saturated age, researchers must find innovative ways to stand out. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the rise of AI, social media, and the internet age, emphasizing that research must be accessible to the public, who are the primary funders of such work. “Making research accessible to the public not only justifies funding but also ensures that it is understood and utilized by a wider audience,” he said.
The event also marked the 30th anniversary of the Pacific Journalism Review and honored the contributions of its founder, Professor David Robie, who was recently awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to journalism and Asia Pacific media education.
Professor Prasad took the opportunity to pay tribute to the late Vijendra Kumar, a prominent figure in Pacific journalism and the first local editor of The Fiji Times, who passed away earlier this year.
Expressing his condolences, Prasad acknowledged Kumar’s significant contributions to Fiji and the media fraternity. “To the media fraternity, my sincere tribute to this gentle giant of our region. The late Vijendra Kumar inspired many, especially during those challenging years when newly independent Pacific countries were establishing their national media outlets and capabilities,” he said.