Academic research is crucial for the advancement of our region, providing vital ideas, truths, and data to help address numerous challenges.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, underscored this point while launching a new book, “Waves of Change: Media, Peace, and Development in the Pacific,” at the Pacific International Media Conference in Suva last night. Co-edited by Prasad, USP Head of Journalism Dr. Shailendra Singh, and Former USP Lecturer Dr. Amrit Sarwal, the book integrates practical insights with academic research to discuss regional development and progress.
Prasad emphasized the need for researchers to navigate the crowded information age effectively. He pointed out that with the rise of AI, social media, and the internet, making research accessible to the public is crucial, as public funding supports this work. Accessible research, he argued, strengthens the case for increased funding by demonstrating its utility to a broader audience.
The event also celebrated the 30th anniversary edition of the Pacific Journalism Review and acknowledged the contributions of its founder, Professor David Robie, who received the New Zealand Order of Merit award for his services to journalism and Asia-Pacific media education.
Additionally, Prasad paid tribute to the late Vijendra Kumar, a prominent figure in Pacific journalism. Kumar, the first local editor of The Fiji Times and deputy editor of Courier Mail, passed away earlier this year. Prasad extended heartfelt condolences and praised Kumar’s significant contributions to Fiji and the wider media fraternity, calling him an inspiration during the formative years of national media in newly independent Pacific countries.