In a milestone moment for Pacific regional collaboration, The University of the South Pacific (USP) and the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly establish and operationalise the Pacific Tourism Research Institute (PTRI).
This strategic partnership marks a bold step forward in elevating tourism research, data systems, and human resource development across the Pacific.
The PTRI will serve as a regional hub for knowledge generation, capacity building, and innovation, ensuring that tourism development in the Pacific is not only sustainable but also culturally grounded and community-driven.
Through the partnership, USP and SPTO will collaborate across a broad spectrum of strategic initiatives designed to elevate tourism development in the Pacific. These include joint research efforts to inform policy and practice, the strengthening of tourism data systems for more robust analysis and decision-making, and targeted capacity building to cultivate the next generation of Pacific tourism professionals.
The partnership also encompasses curriculum development that reflects regional perspectives, institutional hosting and operational support for the Pacific Tourism Research Institute (PTRI), and active policy engagement to amplify Pacific voices in global tourism discourse. The collaboration aims to ensure the sustainability and scalability of PTRI’s impact across the region.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker highlighted that the PTRI is the product of the collaborative spirit nurtured through the Pacific Tourism Research Cooperation Framework, generously supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (NZMFAT).
The PTRI also supports the 2050 Strategy, SPTO Strategic Plan (2025-2029), Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework, and the Pacific Tourism Statistics Strategy, reinforcing institutional capacity, regional cooperation, and availability of context-specific research.
“Today marks a significant milestone for tourism in our Blue Pacific Continent with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between SPTO and USP,” he said.
“This agreement formalises the creation of the Pacific Tourism Research Institute (PTRI) – a visionary and innovative partnership that will shape the future of tourism research and knowledge development across our region. We extend our sincere gratitude to NZMFAT for their foresight and commitment in laying the foundation for this transformative initiative.”
Echoing similar sentiments, USP Vice-Chancellor and President, Profession Pal Ahluwalia highlighted the partnership’s significance to both the University and the tourism sector.
“USP is proud to partner with the SPTO in launching the Pacific Tourism Research Institute. This collaboration leverages USP’s research strengths and our commitment to regional cooperation and integration, ensuring that our students gain practical experience and contribute meaningfully to the sustainable development of tourism in the Pacific.”
“This initiative will enhance the skills and knowledge of our graduates, positioning them as leaders in the global tourism landscape and fostering a sustainable future for our Blue Pacific.”
As the Pacific navigates evolving global challenges, this partnership stands as a powerful reminder that regional unity, knowledge, and cultural pride are the cornerstones of a thriving tourism future.
