The University of the South Pacific (USP) launched the 2025 Pacific-European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) Conference this morning at USP’s Lower Campus.
Held from April 14–16, the three-day regional event is held under the theme “Advancing Ocean Learning: Navigating Knowledge in the Pacific,” which celebrates the pivotal role of education, research, and innovation in fostering a sustainable ocean future.
In his welcome address, USP Acting Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Jito Vanualailai, reaffirmed the University’s leadership in ocean education and regional capacity development, stating, “This conference serves as a reminder of our shared commitment: to invest in education, promote lifelong learning, cultivate a resilient and skilled Pacific workforce, and ensure that our people—especially women, youth, and coastal communities—are active participants in shaping sustainable marine futures.”
This milestone conference marks a significant step forward in advancing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, acting as a catalyst for cross-sectoral dialogue, capacity building, and transformative ocean learning initiatives.
Fiji’s Minister for Education, Honourable Aseri Radrodro, delivered a keynote address emphasising the importance of ocean literacy and the nation’s determination to strengthen it across generations.
“Education is the foundation of transformation, resilience, and sustainable development,” he said. “This is especially evident in our efforts to preserve and manage our marine resources. The ocean is not only our lifeline—it is our classroom, our laboratory, our economy, our culture, and our identity.”
He further urged a united regional approach to prioritising ocean learning through shared research, stronger networks, and the integration of ancestral knowledge into modern stewardship.
“Let us elevate ocean learning as a regional priority. Let us build on the ancestral knowledge that has long guided our ocean stewardship—for our children, our islands, and our shared Pacific identity.”
Deputy Head of the European Union Delegation to Fiji and the Pacific, Nereo Peñalver Garcia echoed these sentiments, highlighting the power of partnerships in driving ocean action.
“The Pacific Ocean is a shared global responsibility. Through initiatives like PEUMP, we empower Pacific communities with the tools, resources, and education to lead the way in ocean conservation and sustainable fisheries.”
Over the next three days, the conference will facilitate meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange, and regional cooperation, focusing on innovative solutions and inclusive approaches. Participants will explore best practices and emphasise the importance of traditional knowledge, community-driven action, and inclusive education in safeguarding the Pacific Ocean for generations to come.
Jointly funded by the European Union and the Government of Sweden, the EUR 45 million PEUMP Programme is a flagship initiative addressing the region’s most pressing ocean-related challenges. It is implemented by key regional organisations—including the Pacific Community (SPC), Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), and USP—in collaboration with governments, civil society, and academic institutions.
This conference offers a timely opportunity for the region to reflect on its progress, assess lessons learned, and build momentum toward the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. It also provides a platform to amplify Pacific voices and reaffirm the region’s leadership in ocean governance and sustainability.
