The recent Pacific Academy of Sciences Congress (PASC), held over three days at the Taumeasina Island Resort in Apia, Sāmoa, highlighted the critical need for continued support of regional research and training for future scientists. Aiono Dr. Alec Ekeroma, Sāmoa’s Minister of Education and Culture, voiced concerns that recent funding cuts from the United States would significantly impact the development of the Pacific region.
These cuts come on the heels of a directive by former U.S. President Donald Trump to withdraw support from 66 international organizations, including key entities like the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Aiono remarked that the cessation of U.S. aid could lead to a “drying up” of scholarships and resources that have traditionally benefited Pacific scholars.
Notably, the WHO’s budget for health workforce development in the Western Pacific for 2024-2025 was set at over US$7 million, underscoring the stakes involved as the U.S. funding withdrawal materializes. Aiono expressed skepticism that Sāmoan scholars would continue to receive training opportunities in Australia and New Zealand without U.S. support, emphasizing the dire implications for educational prospects in the region.
At the same time, Aiono pointed out that China has stepped in to fill the funding gap, recently providing US$200,000 to SPREP, maintaining a partnership that dates back to 1998. Meanwhile, he acknowledged Australia’s increased financial commitment to the Pacific, though he emphasized that it cannot completely replace the shortfall caused by the U.S. withdrawal.
Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga, Chair of the Pacific Academy of Sciences Board from the University of Auckland, remarked on the significance of the congress, noting it marks a new era where Pacific nations can take charge of their research agendas and develop solutions tailored to their communities. He stressed the importance of strong regional institutions and a collaborative focus on evidence-informed policy to tackle ongoing challenges related to climate and health.
Aiono concluded with a hopeful vision for the future, stating that the success of the academy would be gauged by the outputs produced, such as the number of research papers and the development of young researchers. He expressed optimism that through enhanced collaborations and partnerships, the Pacific Islands could evolve into a more informed and educated region over the next decade. This reflects a determination to ensure that despite current challenges, the commitment to harnessing Pacific knowledge and expertise continues to thrive.
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