Adventist Leader Named Inaugural President of Pacific Academic of Sciences

Pacific Adventist University’s (PAU) vice chancellor, Teatulohi (Lohi) Matainaho, has been named as the inaugural president of the new Pacific Academy of Sciences in Samoa.

Officially launched in late October at the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting by Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, the Pacific Academy of Sciences is aimed at fostering scientific collaboration and innovation in the Pacific islands region and promoting the study and application of natural and social sciences, the humanities, indigenous knowledge, and technology.

Matainaho was appointed as president from among 12 Foundation Fellows, eminent Pacific Island scholars, who will play a pivotal role in leading the Academy to achieve its goals. A renowned scholar and expert in his field, Matainaho brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role.

“I am honored to be appointed as the first president of the Pacific Academy of Sciences,” Matainaho said. “I am committed to working with the Foundation Fellows and the wider scientific community to build a vibrant and impactful institution that will benefit the Pacific region and beyond.”

The Academy has been established as a charitable trust based in Apia, Samoa. The first meeting of the Governing Council (Trustees and Foundation Fellows) was scheduled to take place following the launch.

“The launch of the Pacific Academy of Sciences marks a significant milestone in establishing a regional collaboration in the pursuit of knowledge for a prosperous and thriving Pacific islands region,” Mata’afa said.  

The launch of the Pacific Academy of Sciences has been facilitated by the National University of Samoa and the International Science Council Regional Focal Point for Asia and the Pacific led by the Australian Academy of Science, with the support of the Royal Society Te Apārangi (New Zealand) and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.

About Pacific Adventist University

Pacific Adventist University is a Seventh-day Adventist Church–managed higher education institution established for learning and research in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands. The school is located on the Koiari Park Campus, a peaceful rural setting, 14 miles (22.5 kilometers) outside of Port Moresby. According to the school website, the lush 48-hectare estate is set in a beautiful environment with water-lily lakes, a wealth of bird life, well maintained lawns and shrubs, and well-chosen shade trees, making it a peaceful place not only for its residents but also for many local and international visitors.

The PAU motto is Educate to Serve, and its stated mission is to graduate people who are spiritually prepared, educated, equipped, and willing to serve their community, their country, their church, and their God, and be world changers.

The original version of this story was posted by Adventist Record.