Among the attendees were Samoan nationals Sulu Fiti, a registered nurse, and Dr. Charlotte Johnston, whose participation in the regional initiaitive was supported by the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Group through the New Zealand Medical Treatment Scheme (NZMTS). 

Ms Fiti reflected on her experience. 

"The most important thing I’ve gained from this training is how to apply what we’ve learned to care for our people. When I return home, I will be able to share this knowledge with my colleagues and contribute to the further development of our endoscopy unit.

"I am grateful for this opportunity and will use the new knowledge and skills for the benefit of the patients we care for." 

This annual training programme brings together medical professionals from across the Pacific and was facilitated in collaboration with the Fiji National University, the World Health Organization, and the Colonial War Memorial Hospital.  

One of the key priorities of the NZMTS, funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), is to support and strengthen health workforce capacity through training, and the development of systems and protocols. 

The initiative illustrates the collective commitment to elevate healthcare standards across the Pacific, ensuring that medical professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to provide high-quality care in their home countries.