On May 22, 2025, the U.S.-Pacific Resilience and Adaptation Fellowship Program (U.S.-PRAFP) hosted a semi-formal networking event for its first cohort of PhD scholars at the University of the South Pacific’s Laucala Campus. The event marked an important milestone, as it brought together all scholars in the cohort for the first time since the start of their fully funded fellowships in Semester 1, 2025. It served as a meaningful opportunity for introductions, connection-building, and reflection as the scholars advance through the early stages of their research journeys.
The occasion also marked the formal introduction of the newly appointed Dean of the Graduate School, Associate Professor Utkal Mehta. In his welcome remarks, Associate Professor Mehta expressed his commitment to supporting the scholars throughout their academic journeys and emphasized the importance of fostering scholarly excellence and innovation throughout their research journeys.
The inaugural cohort comprises Holmes Finau, Tyson Ghera, Mafoa Penisoni, Tanana Bakoa, Baraniko Namanoku, James Kimata, Ame Tuisausavu, Lia Bogitini, Alfred Tuikoro, and Archana Reddy. Together, these scholars bring a rich diversity of academic backgrounds and professional experiences.
During the event, scholars shared their research focus areas, which reflect the diverse and pressing climate challenges confronting Pacific communities today. Their work spans critical areas such as traditional knowledge systems, sustainable development, climate adaptation, ocean and land-based resilience, and environmental governance. Despite the diversity of topics, the research is united by a common goal: to generate impactful, locally driven solutions that strengthen the region’s capacity to respond to the complex effects of climate change and to build long-term resilience and adaptive capacity across the Pacific.
The gathering also offered a space for scholars to share their personal experiences and challenges from their first semester at USP. Some reflected on the initial difficulties of adapting to new academic systems and navigating the process of research proposal development. These open discussions provided valuable insights into the student experience and highlighted areas where further academic and institutional support could be enhanced.
As the first social gathering and informal talanoa session of the cohort, the event helped build a strong sense of community and shared purpose. It set the stage for a rewarding academic journey and reaffirmed that, in the face of ongoing climate challenges, the Pacific’s emerging scholars are poised to lead with insight, resilience, and wisdom.
Applications for the second call of U.S.-PRAFP scholarships are now open visit the program’s webpage for more information and to apply: www.usp.ac.fj/us-prafp
