The University of the South Pacific (USP) is one of four key regional partners currently implementing the Pacific-European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) programme to fisheries professionals in 15 countries. USP’s responsibility within PEUMP is to build capacity through education, training, research, and development for key stakeholder groups involved in fisheries and marine resource management. The education component encompasses the review, revision, and development of tertiary-level qualifications, and provides support to postgraduate students. In addition, Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) provides tailored technical and generic upskilling opportunities to address existing and emerging issues in the Pacific.

Marine resources are the backbone of the region/countries’ economies and form the basis of livelihood in Pacific Island countries. There is a growing need for better planning and management of the use of marine resources at local, national and regional level, including conservation of critical habitats and protection of marine biodiversity.

A conference can be a valuable platform to share the knowledge on the various capacity building initiatives that has been made possible through the PEUMP support and partnerships. Information on the capacity built through education, training and research and the experiences of key stakeholders groups in fisheries and marine resource management can be shared effectively through a conference. Other objectives of a conference can include informing other countries on emerging issues and facilitating lessons learned that are aligned with Pacific islands priorities. A Pacific Island hybrid Conference on fisheries and marine resource management would be could be held at the University of the South Pacific toward the end of the program implementation period in March/April 2025 to show case the culmination of the PEUMP in relation to capacity built in coastal fisheries and marine sustainable development.

The conference can also be an opportunity for Pacific islanders to share information from a regional and national perspective paying specific attention to actions and services delivered at country level in order to promote direct and positive changes on the beneficiaries’ lives, in particular women, youth and the most vulnerable groups. This will then create a truly Pacific platform of knowledge-sharing, networking and interactive dialogue.

Marine resources use is under increasing pressure in small island countries and conservation and sound management of oceanic and coastal ecosystems are vital to support sustainable coastal and oceanic fisheries and biodiversity are prerequisites for sustainable social and economic development in the region.

The USP PEUMP component can support a conference for up to 150 women and men from across the Pacific region to share their practical experience and scientific knowledge within session topics on fisheries education and training, coastal fisheries & ecosystem management and marine sustainable development and ecosystem management.

The Institute of Marine Resources (IMR) at the School of Geography, Environment, Oceans, and Natural Sciences (SAGEONS) is inviting Expressions of Interest for the organization and coordination of the important conference to culminate the overall PEUMP capacity developed in it 15 participating countries.

The applicants are required to submit an application letter detailing their previous experience in organizing and coordinating a conference of up to 150 people and provide 2 referees in support of their experience.

Applicants must satisfy the following requirements:

1. Have at least 2 years’ experience in similar organizations and coordination of conferences or conferences.
2. Ensure effective coordination of all technical experts and ability to work with event organizer for a successful conference.
3. A subject-matter expert and familiar with stakeholder groups in fisheries and marine resources management.
4. Excellent oral communication and written skills in English with the ability to provide timely reports.
5. Familiar with USP component of PEUMP programme.

The selected consultant will be required to work in collaboration with the USP PEUMP team to:

1. Conduct a call for papers/abstracts; review submissions and provide feedback to the Advisory Committee to ensure consistency and a high quality programme; prepare presenter’s guidelines; liaise with selected presenters on programme scheduling; liaise with sub-committees (2) and (3) to ensure smooth coordination.
2. Oversee of Conference Programme; provide regular feedback to Advisory Committee to ensure smooth coordination and overall efficient running of conference registration and programme, rotation of conference rapporteurs and preparation of draft conference proceedings.

Organizations who are approved USP vendors are desirable.

Applications are to be submitted to imr@usp.ac.fj  by COB 2^nd December 2024.