The purpose of PERF is to assist Pacific countries to re-think development and education processes, which would allow them to take control of their futures directions and to create the enabling environments in which all members of their communities could develop the values, attitudes, knowledge and skills cognisant of their cultural heritages, as the foundation for learning, thinking and becoming responsible and productive citizens of their communities and the global society.
The Pacific Education and Research Foundation (PERF) was launched by His Excellency Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi, Vice-President of the Republic of Fiji, on 6th April 2006 at the University of the South Pacific, Suva campus.
The establishment of the PERF is a significant milestone for education in Pacific Islands countries. Never before have Pacific Island countries had their own dedicated and autonomous organization, set up by Pacific educators, aimed at re-thinking development generally and education more specifically. The PERF envisions a future wherein education is led by Pacific Islands educators, and not by those external to Pacific communities. The PERF sets a benchmark for autonomous development in educational thinking and research.
The launching of PERF propels this exciting Pacific-grown initiative into uncharted waters. PERF seeks to be autonomous, self-funding and self-sufficient. It aims to work with Pacific communities, professionals, donors, governments and other stakeholders as partners, while maintaining leadership in the hands of Pacific Islanders. PERF seeks to generate, raise and use funds judiciously in supporting educational re-thinking and research by Pacific peoples for their communities. PERF affirms its commitment to cultural heritage as foundational for learning, teaching and knowledge creation in Pacific communities. PERF envisions a future that is different and sets the benchmarks for educational partnerships based on this renewed vision.
In the formation of PERF, considerable work and collaboration had been undertaken in recent years. In its financial support for the RPEIPP, the NZAID had played a pivotal role since 2001. Many educators, students, government officials and community leaders have participated in a variety of “re-thinking education” initiatives throughout the region.
All educators of Pacific Islands countries are eligible members of PERF and can participate at this meeting. We encourage you to apply formally to be a member and to join us at the April meeting and the launch.
