Port-Vila, Vanuatu – Saturday 9 August 2025: The National University of Vanuatu (NUV), in partnership with Vanuatu Cultural Centre, hosted the first-ever Vanuatu Research Update 2025 on Friday 8 August 2025, at the NUV Auditorium in Port Vila.
Themed “Wanem yumi save naoia – What we know now”, the Vanuatu Research Update 2025 brought together emerging and ongoing research being conducted by Ni-Vanuatu in Vanuatu and about Vanuatu. This trilingual event, presented in Bislama, English and French, showcased the latest research and knowledge being built in and about Vanuatu, offering a platform for students, researchers, policymakers and members of the wider public to engage with locally grounded academic work.
Throughout the day, speakers shared their findings on a wide range of contemporary issues relevant to Vanuatu, including education, culture, politics, health, economics, disaster preparedness, and climate resilience. Research was presented across five thematic panels, with discussions exploring how locally driven inquiry can inform decision-making and inspire future scholarship. The event also featured a special lunchtime panel focused on political dynamics, with participation from national leaders and researchers.
Opening remarks were delivered by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of NUV, Professor Pascal Michon, and Acting Director of the Vanuatu Kaljoral Senta, Mr. Edson Willie, who welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of accessible, community-oriented research. Presenters from institutions such as NUV, the University of Otago, the Australian National University, Swiss Business School, Université de la Nouvelle-Calédonie and other organisations shared their work throughout the day.
The Vanuatu Research Update 2025 was designed as an inclusive space for both academic and non-academic audiences. Presenters have been encouraged to deliver their work in clear and accessible language to ensure broad engagement from all attendees. The event was committed to making research visible and available to the communities it serves, addressing the current challenges of limited access to academic knowledge.
The day concluded with a celebration of Vanuatu’s cultural richness through artistic performances, including a string band and a custom dance, honouring the connection between research, identity and tradition.
