Thought leaders, academics, policymakers, development partners, and students have converged at The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Laucala Campus in Suva, Fiji, for the three-day 2025 Pacific Update.
Jointly organised and co-hosted by USP’s School of Accounting, Finance and Economics (SAFE) and the Australian National University’s (ANU) Development Policy Centre, the event features over 60 presentations from researchers across the Pacific, including Australia and New Zealand.
The various topics discussed addressed key issues shaping the Pacific’s economic, social, and environmental future. Key topics include regional integration, climate adaptation, gender equality, migration, and the transformative impact of digital technology.
USP Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia, welcomed the participants by emphasising the power of collective strength.
The Pacific stands at a pivotal moment, and it is our collaboration that will guide us toward resilience and prosperity. We live in a time of significant uncertainty where the global order is being reshaped. The Pacific must be ready to shape its own future.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Fiji, His Excellency Peter Roberts, reaffirmed Australia’s support for the region.
Australia is proud to be a steadfast partner of the Pacific and USP. Together, we can navigate uncertainty and build a stronger future.
Pacific Islands Forum Secretary-General, Honourable Baron Waqa, delivered the keynote address and stressed the importance of Pacific-driven indicators of progress.
Economic performance must capture our resilience, connectivity, and people’s well-being—not just numbers.
USP’s Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Regional Campuses and Global Engagement), Dr Manumatavai Tupou-Roosen, also reflected on the University’s role in fostering regional dialogue.
The Pacific Update reflects our shared commitment to regionalism and inclusive dialogue. USP is proud to provide this platform.
The Pacific Update 2025 continues to serve as a vital platform for dialogue, partnership, and shared solutions for a resilient Blue Pacific.
The full programme can be accessed via events.devpolicy.org/20250603-program
Those interested can also join the livestream by visiting www.usp.ac.fj/live