THE University of the South Pacific (USP) proudly launched the 2025 Pacific-European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) Conference in Suva, Fiji.
Scheduled from 14-16 April, the three-day regional gathering is held under the theme “Advancing Ocean Learning: Navigating Knowledge in the Pacific” and celebrates the transformative role of education, research, and innovation in building a sustainable ocean future.
In his welcome address, USP Acting Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Jito Vanualailai reaffirmed the University’s enduring leadership in ocean education and regional capacity building.
“This conference is a moment to reaffirm our shared commitment: to invest in education, to promote lifelong learning, to build a resilient and skilled Pacific workforce, and to ensure that our people—especially women, youth, and coastal communities—are active participants in shaping sustainable marine futures.”
“This is where ocean learning becomes vital. Advancing our knowledge of the ocean is no longer optional, it is essential. It enables us to make informed decisions, to protect our cultural heritage, to empower our communities, and to adapt in the face of uncertainty.”
In his keynote address, Fiji’s Honourable Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, emphasised the importance of ocean literacy and the nation’s unwavering commitment to strengthening it across generations.
“Education is the foundation of transformation, resilience, and sustainable development. Nowhere is this more evident than in our efforts to preserve and sustainably 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 continued by urging a united effort to prioritise ocean learning across the region.
“Let us elevate ocean learning as a regional priority. Let us share our research, strengthen our networks, and build on the ancestral knowledge that has long guided our ocean stewardship—for our children, our islands, and our shared Pacific identity.”
His powerful message reaffirmed the vital role of education in shaping the future of the Blue Pacific.
Echoing these sentiments, Deputy Head of the European Union Delegation to Fiji and the Pacific, Nereo Peñalver Garcia highlighted the power of partnerships in advancing ocean action.
“The Pacific Ocean is a shared global responsibility. Through partnerships like PEUMP, we empower Pacific communities with the tools, resources, and education to lead the way in ocean conservation and sustainable fisheries.”
“This conference is an opportunity to highlight the importance of investing in marine science, because by investing in marine sciences, we are safeguarding the critical ecosystem services that oceans provide. Marine research also allows us to harness the full potential of the blue economy for the benefit of local communities today and for future generations.”
Over the next three days, the conference will facilitate meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange, and regional cooperation aimed at advancing ocean learning and sustainability. Participants will explore innovative solutions, share best practices, and reinforce the importance of inclusive education, traditional knowledge, and community-driven action in protecting the Pacific Ocean for current and future generations.
Jointly funded by the European Union and the Government of Sweden, the EUR 45 million PEUMP programme promotes sustainable management and sound ocean governance for food security and economic growth, while addressing climate change resilience and conservation of marine biodiversity. It follows a comprehensive approach, integrating issues related oceanic fisheries, coastal fisheries, community development, marine conservation and capacity building under one single regional action.
It is implemented by key regional organisations—the Pacific Community (SPC), Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), and USP—in partnership with governments, civil society, and academic institutions.
The conference marks a pivotal moment for the region to take stock of progress, reflect on lessons learned, and build momentum toward the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. It also serves as a powerful platform to amplify Pacific voices and reaffirm the region’s leadership in ocean governance and sustainability.
