Academic research is fundamental to the progress of our region. Its ideas, truths, and data are critical in framing solutions to our many problems.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance underscored this point at the launch of a book he co-edited: Waves of Change: Media, Peace, and Development in the Pacific. The launch took place 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 combines experiential wisdom with research to discuss development and progress across the region.
The book is also co-edited by USP Head of Journalism Dr. Shailendra Singh and former USP Lecturer Dr. Amrit Sarwal.
Prasad added that the information age is crowded, and researchers must find new ways to cut through this crowded space.
“But we do have a Houston problem. The rise of AI, social media, and the internet age pose challenges. Research must be accessible to the public foremostly. They fund your research. You are making your own case for better funding for research if the wider public is able to access, understand, and ultimately make use of your research,” he added.
The 30th anniversary edition of the Pacific Journalism Review and the contributions of its founder, Professor David Robie, was also celebrated.
The Deputy Prime Minister also congratulated Professor Robie on his well-deserved New Zealand Order of Merit award for his services to journalism and Asia Pacific media education.
Prasad paid tribute to the late Vijendra Kumar, a giant of Pacific journalism, the first local editor of The Fiji Times, and deputy editor of Courier Mail, who sadly passed away earlier this year.
Remembering the late Mr. Kumar, Prasad extended his deepest condolences and expressed Fiji’s appreciation for his service to the country.
“To the media fraternity, my sincere tribute to this gentle giant of our region. The late Vijendra Kumar inspired many, especially during those difficult years when newly independent Pacific countries were establishing their national media outlets and capabilities,” he said.