The Academy, headquartered in Apia, Samoa, will serve to function as a hub for scholars, researchers, and indigenous knowledge holders from various disciplines. This new institution aims to elevate Pacific-led research, providing a platform for regional experts to collaborate on projects and influence global scientific policy-making.  

The newly elected Foundation Fellows of the Pacific Academy of Sciences are distinguished leaders who have made significant contributions to advancing science in the region, and join the ranks of Sir Peter Gluckman, President of the International Science Council, who was made an honorary fellow in recognition of his vision and efforts that resulted in the launch. The Fellows include: 

• Patila Amosa, Vice Chancellor of the National University of Samoa 

• Transform Aqorau, Vice Chancellor of the Solomon Islands National University 

• Palatasa Havea, Dean Pacific at Massey University 

• Jodie Hunter, Professor of Mathematics Education at Massey University 

• Bwarenaba Kautu, a neurobiologist from Kiribati 

• Maretta Kula-Semos, Professor of Humanities and Director of Higher Degrees at Divine Word University in Papua New Guinea 

• Macquin Maino, Head of the School of Agriculture at the Papua New Guinea University of Technology 

• Teatulohi Matainaho, Vice Chancellor of the Pacific Adventist University and Co-Chair of the Academy’s Establishment Committee 

• Steven Ratuva, Pro-Vice Chancellor Pacific at the University of Canterbury  

• Jemaima Tiatia-Siau, Pro-Vice Chancellor Pacific at the University of Auckland 

• Ioana Tuugalei Chan Mow, Professor of Computing and Computer Education at the National University of Samoa 

• Jito Vanualilai, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President (Education) at the University of the South Pacific 

Sir Collin Tukuitonga, Board Director for the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group and Associate Professor for the University of Auckland, co-chaired the establishment committee and has been a key advocate for the Academy. Sir Collin highlighted the Academy's role in nurturing young scientists and giving a voice to Pacific scholars, ensuring it contributes significantly to regional and global discussions.  

"This marks a historic moment for Pacific scholars and the scientific community. The Academy will create new pathways and opportunities for the younger generation, while also playing a vital role in shaping regional decision-making,” Sir Collin shares.  

With the election of 12 Foundation Fellows, the Pacific Academy of Sciences is set to strengthen the visibility of Pacific research and create lasting opportunities for the next generation of scientists. Among them is Dr Jemaima Tiatua-Siau, Pro-Vice Chancellor Pacific at the University of Auckland who is also a PMA member, who spoke on the possibilities that are now open as a result of this initiative. 

“The Pacific Academy of Sciences will certainly increase the visibility of Pacific-led research, and showcase our scholarly talent across the Pacific region in sciences and in academia. There are some specific challenges that are unique to the Pacific region, so there is huge potential and opportunity with the Pacific Academy of Sciences for our researchers to be impactful." 

Photo source: National University of Samoa