Academic research is essential to the advancement of our region, providing the ideas, truths, and data necessary for addressing our many challenges.
This sentiment was expressed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, during the launch of a book he co-edited, “Waves of Change: Media, Peace, and Development in the Pacific,” at the Pacific International Media Conference in Suva last night.
As a co-editor, Prasad noted that “Waves of Change” combines experiential wisdom with research to explore 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 emphasized the need for researchers to navigate the crowded information age effectively. He cited the rise of AI, social media, and the internet as challenges that make it imperative for research to be easily accessible to the public, who fund these efforts. “Making research accessible not only justifies funding but also ensures the public can understand and utilize it,” he stated.
The event also celebrated the 30th anniversary edition of the Pacific Journalism Review and honored its founder, Professor David Robie, who recently received the New Zealand Order of Merit for his contributions to journalism and Asia Pacific media education.
Prasad also paid tribute to the late Vijendra Kumar, a pioneer of Pacific journalism and the first local editor of The Fiji Times and deputy editor of Courier Mail, who passed away earlier this year. He extended his deepest condolences and acknowledged Kumar’s significant contributions to the field.
“My sincere tribute to this gentle giant of our region. Vijendra Kumar inspired many, especially during the formative years when newly independent Pacific countries were establishing their national media outlets and capabilities,” Prasad remarked.