BY TONY IROGA
Two representatives from the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) showcased the country’s climate innovation and research during the Pacific Islands Innovation Forum on Climate and Environment (PIFCE), held from June 27 to July 3, in Vanuatu, SINU said yesterday.
Assistant Lecturer in GIS and Remote Sensing, Steve Tahunipue, and final-year Bachelor of Environment Studies student, Philip Bero, represented SINU at the regional forum, which brought together Pacific universities, scientists, policymakers and innovators to discuss climate resilience and sustainable development.
The forum was held under the theme, “Innovation in Academia: The Role of Pacific National Universities in Building Climate and Environmental Leaders”.
Speaking during the forum, Mr Tahunipue said Pacific universities have a greater responsibility than simply teaching climate science.
“Pacific universities must not only teach climate science but also demonstrate climate leadership by integrating traditional ecological knowledge into policies, strengthening regional research networks, developing shared curricula, and building long-term partnerships beyond donor-funded initiatives,” he said.
He said four key areas to strengthen climate education across the Pacific include; stronger regional research collaboration, promoting traditional ecological knowledge, expanding student exchange opportunities, and increasing youth and community participation through citizen science and practical conservation activities such as mangrove restoration.
Meanwhile, Mr Bero presented a research poster on combining traditional knowledge with remote sensing technology for weather prediction and community resilience in Lokuru, Rendova Island.
Following his presentation, he was selected to serve on the Pacific Islands Universities Supervisors Panel.
Mr Bero said climate studies must address the everyday challenges facing Pacific communities.
“Climate and environmental studies must be connected to real-world challenges, including pollution, sea-level rise and food security, while respecting Pacific cultures and indigenous knowledge,” he said.
He also said climate education should reach beyond universities to schools, vocational institutions, communities and church programmes so climate awareness becomes part of everyday life.
During the forum’s innovation challenge, Mr Bero teamed up with students from Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu to develop a mobile application that provides early warning alerts for natural hazards.
The project won the People’s Choice Award during the pitching competition held on July 2, with each team member receiving an Android smartphone in recognition of their achievement.
SINU said the participation of Mr Tahunipue and Mr Bero reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to promote climate leadership, sustainable development and inclusive education in the Pacific.
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