SINU and Ocean University of China Launch Joint Ocean Research Centre

Press Release

Wednesday 15 April, 2026

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and Ocean University of China (OUC) have officially launched the Solomon Islands–China Ocean Research Centre following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The MOU was signed in Honiara on Monday, 13 April, by SINU Acting Vice-Chancellor Dr William Parairato and President of Ocean University of China, Professor Zhang Junfeng.

The agreement enables both institutions to collaborate on student training and research in marine-related fields. The initial focus will centre on the research theme: β€œResilience and sustainability of coastal regions, integrating scientific inquiry with development priorities for the Solomon Islands.”

Key areas of student training and research will include:

  • Integrated surveys of coastal ecosystems, hydro-meteorological conditions, and socio-economic indicators in the Solomon Islands;
  • Ecosystem service assessment and valuation of coastal zones;
  • Suitability zoning and prioritisation of coastal nature-based solutions based on ecosystem service valuation; and
  • Governance pathways based on resilience assessments for coastal social-ecological systems under climate change.

Additional research priorities under the MOU include:

  • Climate change adaptation initiatives focusing on how the Solomon Islands can respond to changing oceanic conditions;
  • Economic development through research that enhances the value of the country’s maritime resources;
  • Community engagement to ensure local participation in research initiatives; and
  • Policy impact, with a focus on translating research findings into actionable national policies.

According to the MOU, three priority actions for 2026 have been identified: a joint training cruise in China’s coastal waters, an international meeting on the Southern Ocean, and the delivery of an oceanography course. Plans for 2027–2028 will be developed based on the outcomes and effectiveness of the 2026 initiatives.

The Centre will be governed through a structured framework comprising:

  • A Steering Committee to provide strategic direction and oversight, consisting of representatives from both universities and experts in marine-related fields;
  • A Director, appointed on a rotational basis between SINU and OUC for a three-year term, responsible for the Centre’s operations and programme implementation;
  • An Advisory Board made up of scholars, industry experts, and policymakers to guide research priorities and ensure alignment with global best practices;
  • Joint funding efforts from government, non-government, and private sector partners; and
  • Shared intellectual property ownership between SINU and OUC, subject to mutual agreement and institutional policies.

Both institutions reaffirmed their strong commitment to the partnership and expressed optimism about the successful implementation of the MOU and the long-term benefits of the Centre.

The MOU signing was witnessed by SINU Chancellor Sir Dr Nathan Kere; SINU Council Chairman Dr Morgan Wairiu; Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities (FEH), Dr Patricia Rodie; Dean of the Faculty of Business and Tourism (FBT), Associate Professor Elliot Mugamu; Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (FAFF), Dr Vaeno Wayne Vigulu, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology, Dr Clyde Puilingi and; Head of Department of Fisheries, Dr Kofi Apreku, Β along with officers from the Vice-Chancellor’s Office and visiting members from the Ocean University of China.

ENDS//