Port Vila, Vanuatu – Wednesday 17 June 2026: The National University of Vanuatu (NUV) is taking part in the 2026 Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue from 15 to 17 June 2025, joining regional leaders, academics, civil society representatives and policymakers in discussions on the future of peace, security and resilience in the Pacific.
This Dialogue highlights the increasingly interconnected nature of regional challenges, including climate change, economic security, transnational crime, digital transformation and youth opportunities. Throughout the discussions, participants emphasised that Pacific solutions require coordinated action, stronger partnerships and a shared regional purpose.
For NUV, participation in the Dialogue aligns closely with the University’s mission to provide quality higher education, contribute to national development and strengthen regional cooperation. The conference reinforced the importance of Pacific-led responses and the role of universities in shaping informed, resilient and connected communities.
A recurring message throughout the Dialogue was that peace and security are not the responsibility of one sector alone, but require collaboration between governments, academia, civil society, faith-based organisations, youth and the private sector. Speakers stressed that fragmentation weakens the region, while coordination and solidarity strengthen it.
The discussions also highlighted the growing importance of digital transformation and the need to equip communities with the skills, knowledge and safeguards necessary to navigate emerging technologies responsibly. Participants stressed the value of education, awareness and cultural safeguarding in addressing new challenges facing Pacific societies.
As Pacific universities face many similar challenges and opportunities, the Dialogue provided an important opportunity for NUV to reinforce regional cooperation with fellow higher education institutions. In particular, NUV strengthened its engagement with the Solomon Islands National University and Tonga National University.
During the conference, NUV’s Vice-Chancellor, Mr Jean-Pierre Nirua, met with the Vice-Chancellor of Tonga National University, Mr Giulio Masasso Tu’ikolongahau Pāunga, and the Vice-Chancellor of Solomon Islands National University, Professor Dr Transform Aqorau, to further strengthen institutional partnerships. Discussions focused on expanding collaboration in teaching, research, staff development and student mobility.
These discussions will be formalised through the signing of partnership agreements in the coming weeks, creating new opportunities for universities and students across the region.
NUV Vice-Chancellor, Mr Jean-Pierre Nirua, emphasised the importance of regional cooperation.
“Pacific universities are facing similar challenges and opportunities. By working together, we can share knowledge, strengthen our institutions and create greater opportunities for our students and communities. The Pacific Peace and Security Dialogue reminded us that our region is strongest when we act collectively and support one another. Strengthening partnerships with our sister universities across the Pacific is fully aligned with the National University of Vanuatu’s mission and our commitment to building a resilient, knowledgeable and connected Pacific community.”
NUV believes that stronger regional links among Pacific universities deliver lasting benefits through collaborative research, academic exchanges, shared expertise and enhanced opportunities for students. The University remains committed to promoting cooperation across the region and contributing to a Pacific future that is Pacific-owned, Pacific-led and built on shared values and collective responsibility.
