Port Vila, Vanuatu – Thursday 14 May 2026: The National University of Vanuatu (NUV) extends its sincere appreciation to all speakers, moderators, partners, participants, and members of the public who contributed to the success of the Influential Women’s Forum, held on 12–13 May 2026 at the NUV Auditorium in Port Vila.
Organised by the Observatoire francophone pour le développement inclusif par le genre (OFDIG) in partnership with NUV and regional stakeholders, the forum brought together women leaders, researchers, educators, activists, entrepreneurs, artists, development partners, students, and civil society representatives from across Vanuatu and the Pacific to engage in meaningful discussions on women’s rights, leadership, education, equality, and inclusion.
Over two days, the forum featured conferences, panel discussions, experience-sharing sessions, and open dialogue addressing important issues affecting women in Vanuatu and the wider Pacific region. Discussions explored women’s access to leadership positions, equality before the law, feminist perspectives within Pacific societies, women-led economic initiatives, and regional cooperation projects supporting gender equality. The programme also welcomed contributions from organisations including Balance of Power, Wan Smol Bag, Vanuatu Women Centre, Care International, World Vision, UN Women, and the Vanuatu Human Rights Coalition, among many others.
Dr Leslie Vandeputte, Director of the Language Centre at NUV, welcomed the success of this first edition of the forum and thanked all the influential women speakers and contributors who shared their experiences, expertise, and perspectives throughout the event.
“This first edition of the Influential Women’s Forum has been an inspiring and enriching experience for our University and our community. We are deeply grateful to all speakers, moderators, partners, and participants who contributed to these important conversations over the past two days. It was a pleasure for the National University of Vanuatu to welcome such a large and engaged audience committed to advancing inclusion, leadership, and positive change in our society,” said Dr Vandeputte.
She added that the forum strongly reflects the mission and vision of the University by encouraging critical thinking, research, dialogue, and local leadership development.
“At NUV, we are committed to shaping the University not only as a place of learning, but also as a catalyst for research, the development of ideas and projects, and the strengthening of leadership within our communities. Events such as this forum contribute to building critical minds, encouraging collaboration, and empowering future generations to become agents of change,” she said.
The University also acknowledges the dedication of all moderators, organisers, volunteers, and technical teams whose efforts ensured the smooth delivery of the forum.
NUV looks forward to continuing these important conversations and strengthening partnerships that support inclusive development, gender equality, and leadership opportunities across Vanuatu and the Pacific region. The University acknowledges with gratitude the support of its valued partners: the Université du Québec à Montréal, the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie, OFDIG, and the Government of Canada.
