The two day meeting was facilitated by the ISC and its regional office, the ISC Regional Focal Point for Asia and the Pacific. The meeting provided a space to listen to local needs and aspirations as well as help strengthen the regional voice of science.
Sir Tukuitonga was in attendance and says the academy will be an innovative step towards decision making both regionally and internationally.
"The academy is essentially an opportunity to promote science and the use of science in decision making as well as create opportunities and pathways for young people who want to pursue a career in science and research.
"The Pacific region continues to be impacted by the changing environment and the academy would play a key role in providing advice to Pacific leaders regarding issues such as climate change, mental health and well-being, and non-communicable diseases, to name a few."
Sir Tukuitonga says the conversations that took place across the two day forum helped determine the specific needs and commitments for the academy to address.
"We invited a group of scientists and leaders to discuss and debate the benefits, the costs and risks of establishing the academy. This is helpful for us as we move into the phase of setting up an establishment group."
Sir Tukuitonga and Vice Chancellor of the Pacific Adventist University in Papua New Guinea, Professor Teatulohi Matainaho, will facilitate a process and an establishment committee consisting of people from around the region to design the Pacific Academy.
A number of PMA Members participated in the forum and relayed the significance of a science academy for the Pacific.
Dr Roannie Ng Shiu (University of Auckland Director – Faculty of Medical Health Sciences, Centre for Pacific and Global Health), says the meeting provided useful insights and perspectives.
"There were a range of different voices and there were some free and frank discussions, which was really helpful. There are several challenges that our region faces and everyone that turned up came with a positive attitude; we're quite future and solutions focused, which helped to establish key agendas in establishing an academy.
Dr Jemaima Tiatia-Siau (Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific, Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland), says it is a pioneering moment for the region.
"Within the scientific community, particularly in the global north, there has traditionally been an absence of Pacific voices, and the Pacific Science Academy will challenge this status quo.
"It is imperative that strong leadership, drive, and vision are in place to ensure its long-term sustainability and that our visibility will speak to all that is unique and the outstanding scholarship that exists across our region."