Leaders at the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) meeting in Tonga received assurances regarding the University of the South Pacific’s (USP) pivotal role in driving the social and economic transformation of the Blue Pacific, emphasizing the importance of a skilled society.
During a presentation yesterday afternoon, USP Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia, spoke alongside heads of the Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific (CROP) agencies. He reaffirmed that USP’s mission includes training and producing knowledgeable graduates who will contribute to an agile, highly productive knowledge economy, essential for the implementation of the 2050 Blue Pacific Strategy.
Leaders acknowledged USP’s status as the region’s premier institution for higher education, training, research, and policy guidance. Professor Ahluwalia also expressed appreciation to the Chair of PIF and Tonga’s Prime Minister for prioritizing ‘Education and Health’ in the leaders’ agenda after a long absence.
The Pacific Regional Education Framework (PacREF), based at USP, was identified by leaders as a crucial element for developing resilient, inclusive, and high-quality education systems throughout the region.
Climate Change emerged as a significant topic during the discussions, with Professor Ahluwalia informing leaders about the newly established ‘Centre for Sustainable Futures’ at USP. This center is seen as a transformative initiative for tackling climate change-related challenges and fostering adaptive economies.
By merging expertise, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and adopting a comprehensive approach to training and research, the Centre aims to fill gaps and ensure the strengths of various specialized institutions work together effectively in addressing climate change throughout the Pacific Island Countries.
Furthermore, Professor Ahluwalia reiterated USP’s commitment to enhancing existing regional frameworks that promote cooperation in the development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the Pacific. This includes prioritizing cybersecurity during the ICT Ministerial Meeting and developing a governance framework that will work in conjunction with the Regional Regulatory Authority (RRA).
These efforts will be conducted in close collaboration with all CROP agencies. USP currently chairs both the CROP ICT Working Group and the CROP Working Group on Human Resource Development, while also participating in other working groups as a member.
He also discussed the notable global changes occurring within the Higher Education Sector, such as the evolving student profile and concerns regarding labor mobility. “USP is addressing these challenges through the key themes of Consolidation, Transformation, Innovation, and Sustainability,” Professor Ahluwalia stated.