Last Friday marked a historic milestone for Vanuatu’s academic sector as the National University of Vanuatu (NUV) hosted the country’s first-ever National Research Update Symposium 2025.

The event brought together local researchers and international institutions to highlight the importance of Ni-Vanuatu-led studies focusing on national issues.

The inaugural symposium was held under the theme “wanem yumi save naoia” or “what we know now” and covered major topics including education, culture, health, politics, climate resilience, and more.

One of the key speakers, local researcher Ben Tovor, presented findings from his recent study on how education contributes to Vanuatu’s economy. In an interview, he stressed the need for greater participation by local researchers.

“Research in Vanuatu is not really widespread, so it does not happen too much. We want to see more ni-Vanuatu researchers and students take this path, depending on their studies. We have a lot of potential people in Vanuatu who can do this,” he said.

Another presenter, Christina Aga, who is studying at the Australian National University (ANU), shared her research on the vulnerability of the Pepsi community in Santo during flooding events. She also urged more locals to take up climate-related research.

“I encourage young people to further their studies in research because we need more ni-Vans in this field,” Aga said.

Dr. Leslie Vendeputte, Director of the Language Centre at NUV, said this symposium was the first initiative between the university and the Vanuatu Kaljoral Senta (VKS) to promote local research.

Featuring 10-minute presentations on various topics, the event involved discussion between national leaders and researchers.

Dr. Leslie emphasised that the goal was to amplify ni-Vanuatu voices in research about Vanuatu.

“We want to promote research to show that NUV is a place to study and a place where research is part of the work we do. In partnership with the Vanuatu Kaljoral Senta, which has national policies to guide research, we aim to foster this field.”

Such research, organisers said, can help authorities at the national level address the wide range of issues affecting the country.