SOLOMON Islands National University (SINU) is excited to unveil a pioneering partnership that they are working on with Arizona State University (ASU), the Indigenous Knowledge Institute (IKI), and Nia Tero, a U.S.-based nonprofit organisation.
This collaboration is set to launch the Institute of Islands Futures, a bold initiative aimed at promoting sustainable development and resilience in island communities through an integration of indigenous knowledge and academic research. This was discussed with US Ambassador to Solomon Islands, Her Excellency Ann Marine Yatishock at the Kukum Campus on Friday 15th March.
The collaboration will encompass a broad range of activities including joint research projects, the organisation of master classes in Island Knowledge and Island Futures, and the development of innovative educational content. These initiatives are designed to attract global attention and foster a shared understanding of island ecosystems’ unique challenges and opportunities.
A central element of this partnership is the establishment of the Centre for Islands Futures at SINU. This center will focus on transdisciplinary research and education, addressing vital areas such as climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic development within island contexts. Additionally, the collaboration will see the development of postgraduate diploma and master’s programs that feature in-situ learning and “living lab” community hubs, facilitating hands-on and community-engaged education.
The inclusion of Nia Tero in this partnership underscores a shared commitment to the stewardship of our planet, aligning with the nonprofit’s mission to support indigenous guardianship of earth’s resources. This collaboration is not just a milestone for academic and research excellence but also serves as a bridge, enhancing the diplomatic and educational ties between the Solomon Islands and the United States, and showcasing a collective dedication to nurturing resilient and thriving island communities across the globe.
Professor Transform Aqorau, Vice Chancellor of SINU, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “Our collaboration with ASU, IKI, and Nia Tero represents a pivotal moment in our pursuit of creating a sustainable and resilient future for island nations. This partnership not only strengthens our academic and research capabilities but also deepens the ties between the Solomon Islands and the United States, highlighting our joint commitment to environmental stewardship and educational innovation.”
The Institute of Islands Futures is set to become a beacon of innovation, signifying a new era of collaboration and shared knowledge that will benefit island nations worldwide.
