ππ«ππ¬π¬ πππ₯πππ¬π
ππ ππ¨π―ππ¦πππ« ππππ
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) took part in the βA Blue Future Together: Pacific Islands Sustainable Development Cooperation Forumβ, a major gathering aimed at advancing sustainable development, climate resilience, and higher education partnerships in the Pacific region. The Forum marked the 60th anniversary of Guangdong University of Foreign Studies (GDUFS) and the 10th anniversary of its Centre for Pacific Islands Countries Studies.
The event brought together a diverse range of participants, including university vice-chancellors, regional leaders, policymakers, diplomats, trade representatives, and researchers from both the Pacific and China. Among them were ambassadors representing the Pacific Island universities involved in the newly launched Alliance, as well as experts from China-based think tanks focused on Pacific Islands studies. The Forum provided a space for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaborative problem-solving, emphasising the shared commitment to a resilient and inclusive Blue Pacific.
Representing SINU on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau, Siona Koti, Executive Officer to the Vice-Chancellor, delivered a presentation titled βBridging Knowledge and Action: Higher Education Partnerships for a Blue Pacific Future.β Her presentation explored the critical role of higher education institutions in supporting sustainable development by generating knowledge, building human capacity, and fostering regional and international cooperation. It highlighted universities as bridges between communities, policymakers, and global partners, emphasising the importance of translating research into practical outcomes that benefit societies across the Pacific.
A major highlight of the Forum was the official launch of the GuangdongβPacific Islands Academic Alliance. The Alliance was established on the strength of regional proximity and cultural affinity between China and Pacific Island countries, initiated by GDUFS in collaboration with universities from Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, SINU, and other institutions and think tanks focused on Pacific Islands studies in China. Designed as a structured platform, the Alliance facilitates joint research, coordinated academic programs, exchanges, and people-to-people connections, ensuring that collaboration extends beyond individual institutional relationships.
The Alliance aligns with the Belt and Road Initiative, providing a framework for high-quality, sustainable cooperation between China and Pacific Island countries. By creating mechanisms for dialogue, shared research, and knowledge exchange, it strengthens mutual understanding and supports long-term regional development priorities.
Through the Alliance, SINU will partner closely with member institutions to advance higher education and sustainable development in the Solomon Islands and the wider Blue Pacific. The University will strengthen partnerships, foster joint research and academic exchanges, and provide students and staff with international learning opportunities. This platform enables SINU to contribute strategically and substantively to regional development while reflecting the nationβs priorities and voice.
As the Solomon Islandsβ national university, SINU brings a unique perspective to regional collaboration, complementing the work of multi-national institutions such as USP. By leveraging the Alliance, SINU ensures that its national focus and expertise inform regional strategies, while also engaging in shared efforts to strengthen capacity and innovation across the Pacific.
The launch of the GuangdongβPacific Islands Academic Alliance represents a milestone in regional academic cooperation. SINUβs active engagement underscores its commitment to shaping the future of higher education, building sustainable partnerships, and fostering resilient, innovative, and globally connected development in the Solomon Islands and the broader Blue Pacific.
ENDS//