Wansolwara: Issue 1, 2019 by wansolwaranews1

Wansolwara Issue 1: MAY 2019

ISSN 1029-7316

24 Pages

An independent journalism student newspaper and online publication since 1996

‘One People, One Ocean’ - www.wansolwaranews.com EXCLUSIVE INVESTIGATION:

Death trap on wheels By

A crowded bus during peak time in Suva. In the event of a fire, and the ensuing rush and panic, disembarking could take longer. Picture: WANSOLWARA STAFF

Probe into claims

By GERALDINE PANAPASA and KIRISITIANA ULUWAI

WITH two months to go until the final report on allegations of procedural breaches at The University of the South Pacific is presented to the USP Council, it is still unclear whether former USP vice-chancellor Professor Rajesh Chandra, who is at the centre of the claims, will be asked to step down as the current chancellor of the

MONICA AGUILAR

PASSENGERS on a good number of buses on Fiji’s roads are at risk in the event of a fire because of multiple hazards such as flawed design, lack of exits, overcrowding, and highly inflammable material used for bus construction, says a major local bus operator. The managing director of Fiji Transport Company Limited, Anil Singh, has urged Government to re-examine poli-

Fiji National University. Questions sent to Prof Chandra, FNU vice-chancellor Professor Nigel Healey and Minister for Education Rosy Akbar on May 30 and June 11 remained unanswered when this edition went to press. Wansolwara posed the following questions: • In light of these developments, do you think Prof Chandra should step down as the Chancellor of FNU, pending the outcome of the two independent investigations, or do you think he

cies for the types of buses imported into country, the materials used in their construction locally, and their design. Fiji Transport Company Limited is a service provider that operates 30 buses. Vodafone, which administers the compulsory e-ticketing system on local buses, says more than 400,000 people, including thousands of schoolchildren in every district, are registered e-card users. n Continued on Page 4

should continue? • Either way, please explain the reasons/rationale behind your decision — why should he step down, if that is the case, or why you feel that he should carry on in the position? • If he will continue in this position, do you think the pending investigations will influence donor perceptions of FNU in any way, as well public impressions, or will they remain unaffected? n Continued on Page 3

Your favourite snacks are Coming to USP! Look out for the Hot Bread Kitchen Café, opening across from the USP Bookstore in June.

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VC maps out vision The University of the South Pacific has come a long way since the establishment of the Laucala campus in 1968. With a new vice-chancellor and president at the helm of the region’s premier institution, the University is undergoing a revision of its strategic plan as it strives to become the institution of choice in the region. Vicechancellor and President Professor Pal Ahluwalia took time out of his busy schedule in March this year to speak to Wansolwara about his vision for USP.

Spotlight on claims n From Page 1

Wansolwara: After three months on the job, what is your appraisal of the overall situation at USP? Prof Ahluwalia: After three months, I can say that USP is a very resilient institution. It’s been here for 50 years and every administration always sees new issues and things when they look at it, so I’m also seeing those. At the same time, I’m so happy that the students are getting quality education and that we are moving forward. I think the next few years are going to be exciting as we really try to improve the quality of the services and the things we provide to our students. We are really keen that students have an exceptional student experience when they are here.

Wansolwara: It is understood management is in the process of revising the strategic plan. Can you elaborate on key areas earmarked for changes or improvement in the current strategic plan? Prof Ahluwalia: There was a strategic plan that the council approved last November but the council also gave me some latitude to revise it so they knew that when a new vice-chancellor comes in, he or she, in this case me, will have an opportunity to put our vision into the institution so that I would have a say on the things that should happen and what I thought the priorities were. So we decided, we would not fundamentally change the plan as so much effort has gone into it by the people who had worked on it. So part of that was for me to articulate vision, mission and values but what we have also done is made it very focused on students. The first priority area would be focused on education and really try to work out how we help and measure students’ success. The second is on research, innovation and internationalisation. The third is all about our regional campuses and the importance of our regional campuses. The fourth is our role as a corporate agency and the fifth is about our enabling strategies which are finance, human resource, estates and governance, all the things that make up marketing. All the things that help with the core business here at the university and the core business is education and research and innovation. So that’s how the new plan is structured. There used to be eight priority areas. We have reduced them to five, made it simple and very clear about what the focus areas of the university are.

Wansolwara: What is the progress on some of the major capital development works that are underway or might be in the pipeline? Prof Ahluwalia: One of the big projects coming up is the Solomon Islands campus. You will see this in the draft, the commitment to build the Solomon Islands campus is there but there are lot of other things we are looking at and there are some things that we are rethinking. For example, we are completely maxed out in the amount of borrowing we can do, so we have to probably scale back some things, like we would not be able to build the 12th hall very quickly. We have to probably build it in stages. We will build it in four stages so we will not build it all in one stage. We are also aware that there are a lot of accommodations available around campus and we do not want to be in situations where that is lacking, where the university cannot fill its own spaces. So we are working on a number of strategies but the paramount interest is that the students find good, affordable housing and that they are accommodated in a safe environment.

Wansolwara: Professor Pal, can you elaborate specifically on the Solomon Islands campus project? Prof Ahluwalia: There was a groundbreaking ceremony, the sites had been identified, but there were real issues before I came such as the issuing of the tender and contracting. Asian Development Bank, the people loaning us the money to build the campus weren’t happy with the tender process. So the cost has really escalated. We’re relooking at the entire business case. This was done almost four years ago, and to make sure it makes sense. We hope that everything will be done by May.

Wansolwara: Is there anything planned for neglected areas at Laucala campus such as the USP gym and dining hall that are intensively used but haven’t been 2

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USP vice-chancellor and president Professor Pal Ahluwalia explains the University’s strategic plan during an interview with journalism students at Laucala campus on March 14 this year. Picture: HARRISON SELMEN

maintained, if not, for decades? Prof Ahluwalia: I was at the dining hall recently with the USP commercial director and I told him that we should do some work on changing the tables and chairs, so I would expect there will be a change on this. I did go to the swimming pool one day and had a swim and I said there has to be some changes in the swimming pool area as well. I wanted it painted, looking smarter. These are not really expensive things. I want the students to have the best facilities. A lot of things should have been done before I came, so right now we’re trying to deal with it slowly. We can’t build everything in a day.

Wansolwara: How healthy and sustainable is USP financially, in terms of meeting the needs fully, infrastructural wise, resources, and learning and teaching? Prof Ahluwalia: On the learning and teaching front, I am very happy. I think we have the resources, we’ve prioritised that. But I think our financial situation is not the best, it’s adequate. We’ve also differed a lot of maintenance, which means we’ve got a lot of issues with fixing up things, and that is something we’re now really intensively planning on doing. Some of our regional campuses like the Solomon Islands are in critical condition, so we need to fix those things, but there are other campuses which also needs investments, like Alafua. There is only a fixed amount of money, and it’s how we distribute the money and how we make sure we maintain the estate we have. If we don’t invest in it, it keeps getting worse. So it’s clearly imperative that we have to invest. It’s what speed and at what rate we can do that, the critical word we use is sustainable. We have to do it in a sustainable way. We can’t afford to go on a spending spree, and say we’ll fix everything and then say, ‘Oh hell, we don’t have any money’. So we have to be very mindful of what we’re doing. I have only just in-

herited things. It’s my job to try and fix it, and so I’m asking my students to recognise that and we will work together to fix these things.

Wansolwara:What is USP’s academic-professional staff ratio, and what is your position on this? Prof Ahluwalia: That’s a good question. We have some very good academic staff, but we need more academic staff. I don’t know the exact teacher to students ratio but I think it’s close to 4:1, roughly. It might be less than that. But then again we have 14 campuses in 12 countries. As soon as you have multiple countries you need a lot more staff. You need everything, from finance to marketing to management, you’ll need staff and all sorts of people will have to be involved. So necessarily, we’ll need a lot more staff. We also need to be very mindful that we’re one of the major employers of people in the country where we operate, particularly Fiji. But the commitment we’ve made is that we must hire more staff because that will make a difference to the learning experience here in Fiji.

Wansolwara: During International Women’s Day, you shared a message about the need to look into research on USP’s gender pay gap or if such an issue existed. Can you elaborate on what you meant by this? Prof Ahluwalia: I don’t know if there is a gender pay gap. That is something we need to look at because I wouldn’t want to see a gender pay gap. Generally, males and females are roughly equal in the University which was really pleasing to me, but what I wasn’t clear of is how many senior women were working in academic positions, how many were not and that’s where you look at the gender pay gap, and the gender pay gap is really to see if men and women are paid the same for the same job. So that’s what I had concern for. I don’t have that information, but I wouldn’t want a gender pay gap, this is the point I was trying to make.

• The final question is whether or not Prof Chandra has been asked by the relevant party/authority to step down in light of the allegations/investigations? The allegations of policy breaches against Professor Chandra and some senior management staff (SMT) members were contained in a leaked confidential 11page document drafted by the University’s new vicechancellor, Professor Pal Ahluwalia and directed to the USP Council’s executive committee in March this year. The report outlined alleged policy breaches of past financial decisions, such as speedy recruitment, appointments, promotions and questionable allowances for extra responsibility as well as breaches of the staff review procedures. New Zealand, USP’s second largest funder, has sought clarifications regarding the allegations. According to an RNZ news report on May 24, Foreign Minister Winston Peters called for an ‘explanation’ into the alleged mismanagement, saying they were concerned about the outcome for students, the viability of the operation in the first place and were seeking answers, the causes and explanations. According to the RNZ report, external donors provided more than $US22m to USP in 2017: New Zealand made a contribution of $US3.5 million to USP, while the major donor, Australia provided $13m, the European Union pitching $1.5m, Japan $2.3m and other partners $2m. The report quoted USP saying the risk and audit committee would invite several independent investigators to register their interest once the terms of reference were approved and welcomed a separate independent investigation by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption. At a rally by USP staff at Laucala campus last month, staff members voiced strong concerns about the allegations and demanded an independent investigation. According to the allegations, contracts had been speedily extended, emoluments significantly increased, additional allowances allocated, back dated back pay fast tracked, and staff development leave approval contrary to the university’s processes and procedures. In total large sums of money were paid out. The final report is expected to be completed by August 16.

Wansolwara: There are reports of increased and brazen incidences of theft and burglary on Laucala campus. What is being done to address this? Prof Ahluwalia: I’ve been told that this is because of our open policy where we’ve allowed people from all communities to come and use our sports facilities. When we open our doors to the outside, that happens. It’s natural, a lot of people come inside campus and we don’t have a lot of control over that. The vice president for regional campus properties and infrastructure, Dr Giulio Paunga, is really looking at this. They’ve tried to put more resources in on those days when people who we don’t know are on campus. But I think it’s also really important to all of us to be vigilant. We have to act like a neighbourhood watch ourselves, so if we see something suspicious, I think we should pick up the phone and we should do whatever we can to contact security immediately because that is the only way we can protect each other from this issue.

Wansolwara: Any other comment regarding USP’s overall operations and the way forward? Prof Ahluwalia: Yes. I’ve mentioned earlier, I think there are some fantastic things in this University. There are things that we need to change. There are things we need to do smarter because we have to free up resources so that we can invest in more academic staff, and invest in more things that are going to benefit our students. So those are my priorities. If you see the new draft strategic plan, you’ll see that the emphasis is all on our students. EPARAMA WARUA, ROSALIE NONGEBATU, SEREANA SALALO, SHAZLEEN BANO, DIVISHA DEEPTI, SHARON NANAU, BERENADETA NAGATALEVU, KIRISITIANA ULUWAI AND PRIYA CHAND.

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Concern over flaws n From Page 1 Concerns have been raised by a spate of bus fires around the country in recent years. In August 2008, 12 out of 63 people travelling from Suva to Nadi in a packed Raiwaqa bus were trapped and burnt alive. An article by the Fiji Sun quoted the then director of Traffic, Ramend Raj, saying “the passengers faced great difficulty in trying to escape” as passengers made a panicked dash to get off the smoke-filled bus. Among those who died were two children and their pregnant mother. On August 2017, a Tebara Transport Limited bus caught fire in Nausori. No one was hurt or injured but the videos uploaded on social media showed the entire bus engulfed in flames within 2-3 minutes, with the passengers in an apparent state of shock. Another report by the Fiji Sun (07/05/19) highlighted the experience of a tourist from Mexico, who was on a bus that broke down. A replacement bus that came to pick them also broke down shortly after. According to the article, the tourist claimed “smoke started billowing inside the bus, causing widespread panic as people rushed to get off the bus and had to wait for the driver to open the door”. The Land Transport Authority’s (LTA) findings indicate that most bus fires are caused by electrical and mechanical problems. Mr Singh says decades ago, bus fires were rare because aluminum was used as a base for building the buses, but nowadays, most parts of the bus, including the hood and the rear, are made of fiber, which is cheaper, but flammable. Industrial glue is also used to stick the body parts together. Mr Singh said although there were legislative standards for local bus builders, there were no clear standards for the electrical components. He claimed a lot of the parts are imported from China, such as wires and cables, had not been tested and proven to be safe. Mr Singh said the engine compartments generated a lot of heat, causing the electrical components to deteriorate and perish over a period of time. According to Mr Singh, the fire risk was compounded by poor design. Traditionally, most Fiji buses were designed with open windows. Nowadays, many buses have sliding glass panel windows, with seats accommodating three passengers on one side and two on the other side. When all the seats are taken, the passengers stand in the aisle. As part of our Wansolwara investigation, this reporter and USP Journalism staff travelled on three of the commonly used buses — one with sliding panel windows and the other with the traditional, wide open windows. The buses may have passed safety checks but the risks were obvious to this reporter in light of the interview with Mr Singh. There were at least seven windows on most closed buses on each side. The gap between the windows of the buses this reporter travelled on was about 20cm or at least half an arm’s length. To reach the ceiling fire exit, one would have to be tall or be assisted to climb up. The strongly-embedded sliding panel windows would also require some force and time to break in the event of a fire. Moreover, the narrow gap between the windows would make it difficult to squeeze through. 4

In the event of a fire, trying to escape through the sliding panel window of a bus might be challenging considering the limited space. Picture: WANSOLWARA STAFF INSET: The traditional wide-open buses at the Suva bus stand. Picture: MONICA AGUILAR

Public buses at the Suva bus stand. LTA says 1663 buses and 62 bus companies were registered as of September 17, 2018. Picture: MONICA AGUILAR

There are some completely closed buses with airconditioning and glass windows. These buses have an exit door on the rooftop only. Passengers would have to break the glass windows to escape or reach the rooftop. This reporter also found that in an open, two-three seater semi-full bus, it takes at least 120 seconds for all the passengers to disembark. If the bus is filled to capacity with a maximum of 60 people sitting, it takes between 180 and 200 seconds to disembark. This is partly because of the limited aisle space. However, if the bus if full and has about 15 people standing on the isle, it will take double the time to escape, compared to an empty bus. In the event of a fire, and the ensuing rush and panic, disembarking could take longer. Precious seconds could be lost trying to squeeze through the glass panel windows because of the barriers which most buses have. There could be further delays if the aisle is occupied by standing passengers. This is also the risk of a crush by panicked passengers. The LTA requires every bus to carry a

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n Reaction: Land Transport Authority. Responding to Wansolwara, LTA said they had investigated about seven bus fires with, the National Fire Authority and police from 2012 to September 2018. LTA said electrical and mechanical problems were some of the causes of bus fires as per the investigation findings and safety checks for buses were conducted annually and bi-annually. “Non-compliant issues during our safety inspection for buses are addressed accordingly with relevant bus operators to ensure it is addressed accordingly before buses are allowed to provide service to the general public. We will discuss findings of the bus fire incident first with the bus owner and relevant authorities before taking any action,” LTA said. Fitness and safety checks are also conducted by LTA to ensure proper equipment such as fire extinguishers are installed. So far, 1663 buses and 62 bus companies are registered with the Land Transport Authority as of September 17, 2018.

2.5kg fire extinguisher while buses with sliding glass panel windows are also required to carry axes. Mr Singh says Fiji does not have a separate legislation that regulates the design of the buses. The local manufacturers follow the general rules, that is, the measurement of the spaces between the seats, the width of the window and emergency doors. Most of these buses have a maximum of 60 seated adult. Although majority of the buses are locally made and follow the general design standards set by LTA, there is still a need to re-examine whether imported buses are suitable for Fiji’s roads. This raises another branch of discussion, which ties down to what the bus operators can provide with the revenue they earn from their business. According to Mr Singh, there is a lack of qualified bus drivers in Fiji and claims authorities issue the license to any “Tom, Dick and Harry”. Another issue is the alleged lack of qualified and ethical bus drivers in Fiji.

Mr Singh says not all bus drivers are trained to use the extinguishers, and that some passengers would steal the extinguishers or axe. The only two local bus manufacturers in Fiji — PA Lal and Ba Body Builders — did not respond to interview requests. According to Mr Singh, most bus operators were barely making enough money to survive. Attempts to get comments from the Fiji Bus Operators Association (FBOA) and National Fire Authority proved futile. However, according to a report by Fiji One News early this year, Fiji’s bus industry recorded an annual revenue of $150 million per annum, with 4-5 concessions that Government had placed to decrease their expenses. Although FBOA did not confirm whether the annual revenue given by Fiji Revenue & Customs Service is true, the Association said they were barely making enough money for their businesses to survive, thus an application for a bus fare increase was lodged with the Fijian Competition & Consumer Commission.

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Royal commitment DIPESH KUMAR and ROSALIE NONGEBATU By

CROWN Prince of Norway Haakon Magnus did not mince his words when he spoke about the need for the sustainable ocean management and practices to tackle the problems of overfishing and pollution during his first official visit to Fiji last month. While some world leaders continue to turn a blind eye to the impact of climate change, Prince Haakon stood firm in his belief that “climate change is real and man-made” and that the peoples of the South and the North are already experiencing its effects. During his speech on “Partners Across the Globe –

An Ocean of Challenges & Opportunities” at USP’s Japan-Pacific ICT Theatre, Prince Haakon said his visit to the University aimed to strengthen co-operations between Pacific Islands to battle mutual challenges on ensuring healthy oceans and fighting climate change. “Our common oceans are under threat so we, all of us who live on this planet, have to stop using the oceans as a dump,” Prince Haakon said. “You in the South and we in the North area already experiencing the effects (of climate change). Sea levels are rising and cyclones are occurring in the Pacific Islands more frequently than before, more coral

reefs are dying. “Our winters are getting shorter than before and our glaciers are getting smaller and this is how we are connected. The ice in the North is melting which means it leads to the ocean coming up or the ocean rising all over the world. And of course in this region where you have done the least I guess to create the problem. You are bearing the brunt of the consequences.” Norway’s Minister for International Development, Dag-Inge Ulstein, said sustainable practices in terms of addressing the plastic litter had been instilled in children from a young age. Speaking to Wansolwara, Prince Haakon

Uni students share experience studying abroad By

said he was overwhelmed by the warm hospitality of the Pacific peoples since his arrival. “It’s really wonderful to be here. It’s a very pleasant temperature, love being in the warm. We came from Norwegian winter straight here,” he said after witnessing a cultural performance at the Oceania Centre for Arts, Culture and Pacific Studies. “It’s amazing to see all the friendly peoples of Fiji. We’ve been received so warmly by the also the president and the prime minster of the government. So it’s been quite an experience.” The Prince was on an official 10-day tour of the Pacific starting with Tonga, Fiji and Samoa.

JACQUELINE SUTAHI

WHILE some would say the experience of studying abroad can leave one feeling thrilled and excited, for USP international students Sui Ling Kan and Uraia Mcmillan Tui, their experience studying in Canadian universities was more than just thrill and excitement but a life-changing encounter that came with fun and challenges. From this tropical sunny side of the globe, Ms Kan and Mr Tui embarked on their semester studies in Canada at the University of Guelph in Ontario and Simon Fraser University in Van-

couver respectively during the second semester of 2018. Their journey to Canada began in March when they applied and were accepted for the USP exchange programme co-ordinated by the USP International office in Suva, Fiji. “The exchange life taught me a lot of things, it taught me how different our country is to a developed country and showed me the way they live and how their life is,” said Ms Kan. Ms Kan, 21, is currently a final year Bachelor of Commerce (BCoM) student majoring in accounting and finance at USP’s Laucala campus.

Born and raised in Suva, the Fijian citizen of Chinese decent shared her experience during an information session conducted by the USP International office and the exchange alumni at Laucala campus early this year. Meanwhile, Mr Tui said studying abroad was different and students had to work independently. “When you go on the student exchange programme, you will learn to do things on your own. Competition is really high in Canada. “The workload is really stressful but you will cope if you can,” said an outspoken lad from Nadroga.

USPSA maps focus

$126m aid for teacher training By

GERALDINE PANAPASA

THE Australian Government has committed $A84 million ($F126.7m) to the new Australia-University of the South Pacific Partnership, aimed at supporting efforts to meet the tertiary education needs of the Pacific over six years. The announcement was made by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison during his official visit to Fiji in January this year. Mr Morrison said the partnership would support the Pacific with the implementation of the new Regional Education Framework, which focuses on improving the quality of teacher education in the region. “USP understands respect, quality and openness, and thrives because of all of these things. Australia is not a remote observer of the Pacific. It is our home also and we’ve got a say in what happens here. We must work together,” he said. USP vice-chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia said the Australian PM’s visit to Laucala was a historic and proud moment, adding USP and Australia enjoyed a longstanding relationship.

A student from Marshall Islands garlands a Navy veteran during the Nuclear Victims Remembrance Day celebration organised by the USP Marshall Islands Students Association in March. Picture: EPELI LALAGAVESI Crown Prince Haakon of Norway speaks to USP Journalism students Rosalie Nongebatu, left, and Dipesh Kumar during his official visit to The University of the South Pacific last month. Picture: ROMEKA KUMARI

Students from the Marshall Islands led the march during Nuclear Victims Remembrance Day. Picture: EPELI LALAGAVESI Crown Prince Haakon Magnus meets Norwegian students studying at USP’s Laucala campus during his official 10-day tour of the Pacific last month. Picture: KIRISITIANA ULUWAI

STUDENT EDITORS Editor Rosalie Nongebatu

Insight Features Editor Shreeya Verma

Deputy Editor Kirisitiana Uluwai

Sports Editor Romeka Kumari

Chief of Staff Dipesh Kumar

Regional Editor Nanise Sivo

Chief Sub-Editor Divisha Deepti

Sub-Editors Sharon Nanau Venina Tinaivugona

News Editor Nanise Sivo Campus Editor Eparama Warua Regional Editor Harrison Selmen

Uraia Tui, right, speaks about his experience studying abroad during an information session at USP’s Laucala campus. Picture: SUPPLIED

Advertising Editor Virashna Singh Photographers Junior Oiofa

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TEACHING STAFF Wansolwara Supervising Editor-in-Chief Geraldine Panapasa The Co-ordinator, Journalism Programme Dr Shailendra Singh Broadcast Teaching Assistant Eliki Drugunalevu

The Norwegian royal planted a mangrove seedling during his tour of Tonga. Picture: SUPPLIED

Wansolwara is the independently produced student training publication of The University of the South Pacific’s Journalism Programme. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the USP. This biannual newspaper is printed by The Fiji Sun, which distributes it nationwide as an insert. About 3,000 additional copies are distributed free at various locations around the country. An e-copy of the newspaper can also be accessed via www.wansolwaranews.com.

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Students at Laucala campus joined the march from the Oceania Centre for Arts, Culture and Pacific Studies to the Japan-Pacific ICT Lecture Theatre. Picture: EPELI LALAGAVESI

Association organises remembrance march By

EPARAMA WARUA

THE Marshall Islands Students’ Association (MISA) organised a march to celebrate Nuclear Victims Remembrance Day at The University of the South Pacific’s Laucala campus on March 1. The march started from the Oceania Center for Arts, Culture and Pacific Studies to the Japan-Pacific ICT Theater and commemorated the victims and survivors of nuclear testing carried out in the area in the 1950s. Marshall Islands was one of the most

contaminated places in the world as a result of the nuclear testing. Many islanders were displaced three days after the testing and hundreds more suffered from various illness as a result of exposure to the nuclear radiation. Nehemiah Kilon, a descendant of those who were displaced during the testing, told Wansolwara he would not be silent about the issue. “We have taken it upon ourselves to make known that the Marshall Islands is not sleeping about this issue. We are speaking out and letting people know

that we are resilient,” said Mr Kilon. “Let’s remember those who are displaced in my country. Regardless of where you’re from in the Pacific, we are one ocean, one people.” Students from Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and the Federated States of Micronesia also joined the march to show their support. During the march, students were chanting to a very emotional verse: “We walk hand in hand, we walk hand in hand some day. Deep in my heart, I believe. We will walk hand in hand, some day.”

DIPESH KUMAR

THE University of The South Pacific Students Association (USPSA) has drafted a new transformative strategy 2019-2021 to achieve its vision of the providing the best experience possible for students. The three-year strategy founded on ethical leadership and effective organisation aims to empower USPSA to create an environment where students can realise their potential to be a leader in any aspect of society in the Pacific. Jerry Siota, the deputy chairman of the USPSA Federal Council, says the strategy is the first of its kind. He said they hoped to establish a platform for improvement in the future. “It’s still in consultation stages. We will be consulting the senior management team and the main thing we want to achieve is where all students thrive in their studies. It’s a support mechanism but academic performance is the main one,” Mr Siota said. He said their vision had been there since 2009 along with the legal frameworks and documents, however, people did not know what they were doing until now. “If you are a captain or pilot, you have a destination and then you have to

chart the course. For us, the destination is there but we haven’t been doing anything to reach that destination,” Mr Siota shared. “Nothing had been done all these years. People were joining the association just for the sake of it. They didn’t really know the magnitude of the task at hand.” USP Vice-Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia said USPSA’s vision corresponded with his vision and that every member of USP had to be committed to it. “I think that is a very good vision. It lines up with my vision that I have proposed to all my students and staff,” he said. “I like the vision of achieving the best experience possible for students as they navigate through university because for me, student experience is central. “I want this university to be student-centred first and foremost because if we didn’t have students then we wouldn’t have a university.” Some key priority areas in the transformative plan has include improved participation in student elections, which is expected to be carried out electronically this year. Prof Ahluwalia also commended USPSA’s plans to hold an electronic elections trial. “I think it’s a really good approach,” he said.

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‘Climate change is real’ By

JUNIOR OIOFA

CLIMATE change is real and many Pacific Island countries are experiencing this reality, says climate expert Dr Jale Samuwai. Dr Samuwai became the first graduate to be awarded a PhD in climate change at The University of the South Pacific this year. Speaking at the USP graduation ceremony in March this year, he said Pacific Island countries were at the frontline of the impact of climate change. “Many low-lying atolls in the Pacific region like Kiribati, Nauru and Tuvalu among

Bid to curb theft incidents BERANADETA NAGATALEVU

‘‘We also do community work like planting of mangroves around the island and building seawalls to protect our home and houses but the power of nature was stronger than the power of human,” Ms Botioa said. She said the Government and the people of Kiribati were trying their best to address the issue of climate change but they could not do this alone and needed global action to help strengthen their climate fight. ‘‘Our people are suffering a lot from the impact of climate change. Our properties are being washed away demanding us to evacuate to places which do not belong to

us. How can other people from different cultures accept us and allow us to live with them?” Ms Botioa said. Speaking to Wansolwara, Solomon Islander Samuel Kenini said his island atoll Ontong Java was also experiencing the same impact and was also on the verge of sinking. ‘‘We continue to experience our shorelines and beaches being washed away, causing people to move inland and even settle on other islands,” he said. “The impact of sea level rise is real and beyond our control.”

Strong push for responsible mobile use By

SMARTPHONES have completely transformed the way people communicate, socialise and share information. However, a certain degree of responsibility is warranted when using this technology. For Vodafone Fiji, that responsibility includes restricting minors

INSET: Pacific Technical and Further Education Prize recipient Mere Gataurua with family members during the special awards ceremony on March 19. Picture: JUNIOR OIOFA

Graduates reap rewards of hard work PRIYA NAND

A TOTAL of 2026 students were all smiles after graduating from The University of the South Pacific’s Laucala campus in March. Speaking at the event, USP’s 25th Chancellor Taneti Maamau, the President of the Republic of Kiribati, said graduation represented a combination of years of hard work, sacrifice and passion. “You represent the special symbol of great Pacific minds and capable individuals who will develop and thrive our Pacific to become a region of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion and prosperity, so that all Pacific people can lead free, healthy, and productive lives,” said Mr Maamau, who lamented that the ceremony was the his last to serve as USP’s chancellor. During a special awards ceremony before graduation, USP vice-chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia paid tribute to a unique group of young, talented and promising future leaders. Fifty-two students received special awards in 57 categories. “These students have proven that our Pacific

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region is full of brilliant and talented individuals, who have the drive to excel and compete against other students, anywhere in the world,” said Prof Ahluwalia. “We pay tribute to you for your hard work, dedication and achievements in your respective fields of study.” Recipient of the vice-chancellor and president’s all-rounder gold medal prize, Yash Parmar, was overhwelmed with the recognition. “My motivation was my parents and the hard work they did. I wanted to make them proud,” said Mr Parmar, who scooped the prize for male graduate with the best combined academic performance and record of service to the community. “I faced a lot of challenges such as staying on campus away from my family, meeting assignment deadlines and studying late nights. “My friends and family motivated me to work hard towards the goal I wanted to achieve.” The 21-year-old encouraged fellow students to work hard in life in order to achieve their goals stating that nothing was impossible. Another recipient of the special awards, Mere Gataurua, thanked God for keeping her

or people under the age of 18 years from accessing or buying subscriber identity module (SIM) cards. Vodafone Fiji head of ecommerce and corporate affairs Shailendra Prasad said their corporate social responsibility included the set up of the free mSafe mobile channel that allowed users to report illegal activities in the com-

munity to the authorities. “We want the decision of whether to allow or disallow access to mobile phones to minors to be taken by parents,” he said. “Parents must ensure they supervise their children when they are online to ensure they are not victims of online predators who prey on unsuspecting innocent children.”

From left: Parenting in the Smart Age: Fijian Perspective documentary director Romitesh Kant, executive producer Professor Heather Horst, USP Journalism coordinator Dr Shailendra Singh and co-director Eliki Drugunalevu. Picture: WANSOLWARA STAFF

SHREEYA VERMA

Doco sets tone

USP Vice-Chancellor and President’s All-Rounder Gold Medal Prize recipient Yash Parmar, middle, with family members at the Japan-Pacific ICT Theatre on Laucala campus. Picture: JUNIOR OIOFA

THEFT at The University’s Laucala campus in Suva continues to be an ongoing issue for management, staff and students. Vice-chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia said they were looking into the issue, adding the University’s open-door policy made it challenging to control the movement of people in and out of the premises. “When we open our doors to outsiders, this kinds of things happen,” he said. “We’ve tried to put more resources into this but we also have to be vigilant like a neighbourhood watch. If we see something suspicious, pick up the phone and call the security.” A number of incidents of theft of personal items and USP property had been reported to authorities. A recent case included the arrest of a 23-year-old woman, who was caught trespassing at the USP Halls with a fake ID card. She was also charged with theft. Final-year student Unaisi Rokowati said they noticed the young woman’s suspicious behaviour. “A group of students also noticed her strange behaviour and when we asked for her ID said she forgot it in the ITS lab and ran away,” she said. The 9th Hall Resident Assistant, Masako Matea, said there were incidents where food, clothes and personal belongings were stolen from the dorms. “I’ve asked the Halls office to do something about this but so far nothing has been done,” she said. “Unlike other Halls, we don’t have securities patrolling our area.”

others are experiencing the same threat of global warming and sea level rise, which is very destructive to their lives,” he said. “The change in whether patterns and seasonal harvesting of marine life are not following the normal patterns of the past. People are starting to experience abnormal tides and they are worried about what the damage the tide may cause to their properties.” I-Kiribati Katarina Botioa said their island was sinking and people were forced to move inland for safety reasons not knowing what the sea level would be like in the years to come.

Technology

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grounded. She was awarded four prizes from the Pacific Technical and Further Education programme. “I must commend and thank the USP in partnership with Pacific TAFE for giving me the opportunity and platform to further my education, especially for someone who has been out of the education system for quite some time now,” said Mrs Gataurua, 45. “Personally I’m overwhelmed but I’m thankful to God for keeping me grounded. This achievement has become a spring board to further my horizon. “It was tough balancing being a mum, working and studying but I’m just thankful to my family for supporting me. All the sacrifices were worth it.” Of the 2026 graduates, 387 students graduated from the Faculty of Arts, Law and Education, 333 students graduated from the Faculty of Science, Technology and Environment, and 580 were awarded certificates and diplomas from the Pacific Technical and Further Education (Pacific TAFE). A further 726 students graduated from the Faculty of Business and Economics (FBE).

JARED KOLI

A DOCUMENTARY film highlighting the struggles of Fijian parenting in the smart age has set the tone for conversations about the challenges and responsibilities of new telecommunications. The recently launched film titled, “Parenting in the Smart Age: Fijian Perspective”, was a collaborative effort by the University of Sydney and The University of the South Pacific Journalism Programme. The film’s executive director, Professor Heather Horst, said the documentary highlighted the struggles of parenting, particularly in an era where children had access to smartphones and social media. Prof Horst said they had been exploring ways in which the mobile communication landscape had changed across the Pacific, especially in Fiji, over the past three years. “The documentary film centers upon themes we heard in our interviews about the experiences parents, children and others have navigating the use of smartphones and social media,” she said. “Rather than being prescriptive, or a guide for what to do or what not to do, our hope is that the film provokes a collective conversation about the challenges of new communication technologies and the kinds of responsibilities it generates.

“Our project has been exploring the ways in which the mobile communication landscape has been changing since liberalisation across the Pacific, but especially in Fiji and Papua New Guinea.” USP Journalism coordinator Dr Shailendra Singh said the film was a product of “The Moral Economy of Mobile Phones in the Pacific” – a research project funded by the Australia Research Council. “The film addresses the following question: How has parenting changed in the smartphones and social media era? We get on with the job of parenting without a second thought, but when you pause and think, the film tackles a really deep and serious question,” Dr Shailendra said. He said parenting was important, and smart phones added another dimension to the incredibly complex task. Launched at the Oceania Centre for Arts, Culture and Pacific Studies on April 11, the film was the brainchild of Professor Heather Horst, USP academic staff Romitesh Kant and USP Journalism teaching assistant Eliki Drugunalevu, and took almost 12 months to produce. A documentary that is sure to “arouse a whole lot of emotions”, the film focused the perspectives of old and young parents, teenagers and youths about the use of mobile phones in Fiji. www.wansolwaranews.com> 2019> MAY

Fashion

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Isikeli’s modest quest By

KIRISITIANA ULUWAI

ISIKELI Baravilala hopes to promote modesty with his new fashion line. He believes that fashion is a form of expression and should represent each individual in society. This is what he hopes to achieve when he showcases his new line at the Fiji Fashion Week. The founder of Kosmious Fashion will incorporate modesty in all his designs. Women and men with modest taste in society are often left out when it comes to fashionable trendy designs as designers focus more on what is marketable. These women and men include pastors and their wives, women in Parliament and many others, according to Isikeli. At only 21, Isikeli decided to start his new business. With a little help from his family, he was able to fulfil his childhood dream. ‘Kosmious’ is Greek for modesty and Isikeli wants to be able to provide services to the women and men in Fiji with a “modest taste of fashion”. He is operating from home but dreams of setting up a proper business venture. Isikeli was born and bred on the Garden Island of Taveuni where he completed his primary and secondary education. He is the youngest in the family and a student at the Fiji National University. Other than his passion for fashion, Isikeli hopes to become a history and English teacher when he graduates. Isikeli has always been passionate about

INSET: Isikeli Baravilala. Picture: SUPPLIED

Isikeli Baravilala works on his fashion collection for Fiji Fashion Week 2019 from May 20-25 at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva. Picture: KIRISITIANA ULUWAI

fashion and designing. However, living far away from the Capital City have always been a challenge. “Designing has always been my passion. Growing up on the island, I did not have the opportunity to expose my work. But my

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family have been very supportive,” he said. The lad from Namata, Tailevu also designed costumes for pageant contestants last year. This included two king contestants during the Hibiscus Festival in Suva and a queen contestant at the Bula Festival

in Nadi. “The feeling that you have watching a piece of your idea on stage always makes me cry,” Isikeli said. Fashion is not just about looking good it also has to be about feeling good about yourself. Participating in Fiji Fashion Week this year was an exciting experience for Isikeli, who aimed to bring something new to the fashion runway. “My collection will incorporate modest designs that are suitable for people who are not comfortable with showing too much of their physical body,” he said. “I want to challenge the world’s standard with godly principles and values. “Fashion is about influence. I hope everyone will be able to see that we are all beautiful, no matter our size or fashion preference.” Under his fashion label, he has named his collection ‘Mamafainoa’, which is a tribute to a close friend who lost his life last year while trying to save a young girl from drowning. Starting his fashion line was not an easy task, but with sheer determination and commitment anything is possible. For Isikeli, confidence in oneself is key to achieving great things in life. His simple advice to those thinking of branching out into the world of fashion is to stay true to oneself. “You are the author of your own story and you decide how it ends,” he said with finality.

Travel

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Jared Koli, far left, with friends, colleagues of the Jenesys 2018 program in Japan. Picture: SUPPLIED

From the swaying coconut palms of the tropical South Pacific, former Island Sun reporter and USP second-year journalism student, JARED KOLI, travelled to the world’s third largest economy, Japan, a fascinating country with rich and vibrant culture, and ranked number one in global high-tech countries that largely contribute to today’s technological landscape. Here, he shares his experience, together with other university students from Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, who were on a 10-day visit to Japan under the JENESYS 2018 study tour and student cultural exchange programme.

Y eyes were wide open and my face was glued to the aircraft window as it descended towards Narita International Airport, Japan after a six-hour flight from Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The time was 8.30pm on January 19, 2019, the day we left Honiara and transited through Port Moresby. Impressed by the city lights from a bed’s eye view, I almost forgot but quickly grabbed my smartphone and began taking video shots as I was planning to document the whole trip. The aircraft gradually lowered itself and finally touched down on the tarmac and taxied in to a standstill in front of the gigantic Narita airport terminal two. At the Port Moresby airport, we were joined by fellow PNG university students who travelled on the same tour under the theme, “Trading, Investment and Tourism”. There were about 24 of them from three PNG-affiliated universities that combined with the 17 of us from the Solomon Islands who were studying at USP’s Laucala campus in Suva. This included students in both groups 5A and 5B. We were separated when we arrived in Tokyo, and group 5A travelled to Nagano prefecture while our group, 5B, went to Okinawa. Our journey to Japan started five months ago when an application for the Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (JENESYS), a project advanced by the Japanese Government, opened for university students in 14 Pacific Island countries. This was co-ordinated by the USP International Office in Laucala. So to Japan we were headed. The winter and a whole new adventure awaited us. We disembarked Air New Guinea’s Boeing 767 aircraft, and proceeded to the Japanese Customs and Immigration where we were warmly welcomed by our programme co-ordinator, Takae Susuki, from the Japan Overseas Cooperative Association (JOCA), Keiko Matsumoto, our group’s interpreter, a travel agency staff and Ichiro Takada, a national certified guide interpreter who ac-

Taking in Japan’s bright lights Jared Koli, right, with friends in Japan. Picture: SUPPLIED

companied group 5A throughout their tour. They were waiting at the arrival lobby with printed placards of JENESYS 2018 Group 5B. They were very friendly, helpful and guided us well from the time we arrived, to our departure from their beautiful country. We were then ushered to a waiting bus. The cold was unbearable, compared to Solomon Islands and Fiji but we seemed excited. In fact, it was 5 degrees Celsius, and we were wearing warm clothes from home. A light dinner of hot dogs, snacks and juice was shared among us and a short briefing convened on the bus about our hotel rooms and the next day’s programme before we left for Tokyo, a journey that took another hour. I was completely overwhelmed by the

glamour and colourful neon lights of Tokyo as we proceeded to the city, snapping pictures along the way — although I was feeling tired from the long haul flights from home. It felt like I was in the middle of a dream, having heard, read and seen in movies things about this great city since childhood. I learned from a guide later that Tokyo was rebuilt after World War II as it was destroyed by American bombers during the war. But now, more than 70 years after the war, the city is a concrete jungle of ultra-modern glass skyscrapers and ocean of buildings with more than 13 million residents. Although modern, the traditional, tranquility and old-style — magnificent architecture is still largely maintained in the

country. The city metropolis comes to about 2,187 square kilometers. However, the city expands outwards to a massive 13,572 square kilometres, larger than Fiji’s largest island of Viti Levu, which covers an area of 10,388 square kilometres. During the trip, we had a lot of food to eat. The taste took some getting used to. Nonetheless, I love exploring new food as much as I love exploring new things and new places. Japanese cuisine offers an abundance of gastronomical delights with a boundless variety of regional and seasonal dishes as well as international cuisine. We visited the Senso-Ji Buddhist temple and later at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation. The famed Senso-Ji temple was another fascinating eye-opener for us. Beaming with beautiful traditional curved wooden roof — red in colour, it is Tokyo’s oldest and grandest-looking temple. We were told that the temple is dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of mercy and compassion and opened in 645AD, about 1370 years ago. The temple is located in Tokyo’s Asakusa district. We also visited the National Museum of Emerging Science And Innovation in Odaiba, Tokyo. Exploring the museum, we were astound by its scientific development, its advances in high-tech and robotics. From hanging globe sphere to model space ship, hanging Rainbow Bridge, and lots of other interactive exhibits that I’d never seen before. On a bio-civilisation perspective, I noted Japanese people are forward-thinkers about waste, reuse and recycling, and advanced disease prevention. We attended a lecture on tourism the second day, and learnt about Japan’s tourism policy. One thing that caught my eye was the slogan of the Japan Tourism Agency, which read: “Japan, Endless Discovery” — this was most fitting and reflected well through the places we visited. Japan really is a land of endless discovery.

www.wansolwaranews.com> 2019> MAY

Insight

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12-year window to save the planet By DIPESH KUMAR and EPELI LALAGAVESI AN increase in global temperatures can prove fatal for the Pacific ecosystem, causing permanent detrimental damage if urgent action is ignored over the next 12 years. These were the words of Dr Morgan Wairiu, the deputy director of USP’s Pacific Centre for Environment and Sustainable Development, while addressing journalism students on how to improve climate change reporting at Laucala campus recently. Dr Wairiu warned that the global average temperature is now 1 degree while the maximum increase in the temperature that the Pacific Islands could handle was 1.5 degrees according to projections. “Once we reach 1.5 degrees there will be permanent damage to all our ecosystems including both natural and human systems. That’s why the Pacific countries are always negotiating to keep the global average temperature well below or at 1.5 degrees Celcius,” he said. “Going beyond 1.5C will kill most of the ecosystems within the Pacific so our survival is at stake if we reach 1.5C.” He said predictions pointed to a timeframe of 12 years to reach the global average temperature of 1.5C, adding transformational change was required to reduce greenhouse gases. “I’m not talking only about the Pacific. It has to be everybody’s commitment. Don’t emit the greenhouse gases or the carbon dioxide, that’s the main gas. We have only a small window of opportunity, which is 12 years. By the year 2032, we’ll reach 1.5 degrees and that will be very detrimental to Pacific Islands’ ecosystems,” Dr Wairiu said. “Most of the Pacific countries agree that we need to keep temperatures at 1.5C or well below 1.5C. Exceeding 1.5C will be devastating for the Pacific Island countries and we hope that global communities will listen to us and do their part to reduce emissions.” Understanding climate change Dr Wairiu said most people did not believe that climate change was occurring because they did not understand the difference between climate variability and climate change. “A lot of people get confused on what is climate variability and what is climate change but when they start observing cool periods in some parts of the world, they start questioning, ‘where is this climate change we are talking about?’ “That is climate variability. It is part of the natural variability of the climate system. “Climate change is the permanent shift in temperature. From 1850 to 1900, the global average temperature increased by 1C. In 12 years, it will increase by 1.5C,” Dr Wairiu said. He said observations on the temperature increase began in the 1800s and those reports were used as reference to highlight the significant increase in temperature. “Since observations began in the 1800s up until now we have observed a significant increase in temperature. We are using 1850 as a reference year and when they talk about the period we are using to monitor the climate, we use the French period from 1850 to 1900. So the average temperature between those years is our reference point,” he said. “Any change from that reference letter is the observation of the change. Since the reference period, the global average temperature has now increased by 1C.” Food security Dr Wairua also explained that it was important to know the impacts of the increase in temperature on oceans, terrestrial and mangrove ecosystems. “In terms of plants, a shift in 0.01 degrees in temperature will affect the way they flower and therefore affect production in terms of food production,” he said.

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AnnMary Raduva, right, with friends and family during the mangrove planting and beach clean up event in Nasese, Suva. Picture: JUNIOR OIOFA

Dr Morgan Wairiu with journalism students at USP’s Laucala campus. Picture: JUNIOR OIOFA

Youths clean up the foreshore along Nasese in Suva. A Pacific climate expert has warned that urgent action is needed to address the rise in the global average temperatures. Picture: HARRISON SELMEN

“The same applies to the ocean. The sea has warmed by the same amount of degrees Celsius. Some corals and algae in the ocean have died. These are part of the food chain humans depend on.” Dr Wairui said human survival in the Pacific depended on the actions of today. “It will require not only sending our governments to the negotiation forums but participation from people across different communities so we can get our voices heard,” Dr Wairiu said. “They need to know about our situation. It is knowing and seeing the realities that will change the mindset of people. “We must also build the capacity of Pacific Island people so that we are well aware of the implications and impacts and how we can devise plans and system.” However, he said the sad reality was that action to reduce greenhouse gases was not happening at a rate fast enough to close the 12-year gap. “We are making a progress but I don’t think that progress will make it to 2030 for zero emissions. We can build seawalls and establish mangrove planting to withstand wave damage along the coastline but if we get to 1.5C, those adaptation won’t be able to help,” said Dr Wairiu. “We hope the global community is listening to us and they are doing their part to reduce emissions but there is no evidence of it right now,” he added.

Plea from youths AnnMary Raduva, 15, founder of the ‘Say No to Balloons’ campaign says her future does not look promising if people did not start doing things now. “In 12 years I will be 27 years old. My future is not as promising. I hope to carry on talking about policies, implementation and trying to find solutions to a problem that me and my generation didn’t create,” she said. “As a young environmental activist, I have been stigmatised because of my age and gender but those who criticise me don’t realise that in 12 years we might not enjoy the resources we have today.” Role of journalists He said journalism students had a crucial responsibility not only within their community but globally to report on environmental and climate change issues. “Your program is very important because you take care of information dissemination. “So while you are putting together all those information make sure that the information is shared with the community, including the corporate community, so they are all aware of the plight of the people in the Pacific,” he said. The discussion forum with Dr Wairiu was part of USP Journalism’s preparation for its environmental reporting project in the Solomon Islands as part of the Internews/ Earth Journalism Network’s Asia-Pacific Media Grant 2019.

USP Journalism students listen to Dr Morgan Wairiu’s presentation during a discussion forum on climate change and environmental reporting in the Pacific. Picture: WANSOLWARA STAFF

Opposition Member of Parliament Lenora Qereqeretabua joins a mangrove planting initiative organised by environmental youth activist AnnMary Raduva. Picture: HARRISON SELMEN

Youth activist initiates climate fight for survival By HARRISON SELMEN AS many as 2000 mangrove seedlings were planted along the foreshore at My Suva Picnic Park last Saturday as part of coastal rehabilitation initiatives to combat climate change and plastic pollution. Spearheaded by youth environmental activist AnnMary Raduva, the mangrove planting and beach clean-up event complemented efforts at the national level to plant 500,000 trees under the coastal rehabilitation programme and one million trees per year inland. Ms Raduva, a high school student at Adi Cakobau School, said it was encouraging to see the community support towards reducing litter and plastic pollution in the country. Her passion and commitment to save the environment kicked in a few years ago after she saw a video on YouTube of the negative impact of plastics pollution. “There was a video on YouTube where a turtle had swallowed plastic and died instantly,” said the 15-year-old, whose family also played a role in organizing the event. “I told my mum that we should give this initiative a go in Fiji because I was worried about the impact of litter and plastic pollution on our mangroves and fishes. “I am still knocking on Government’s door, urging our leaders to relook at existing laws on litter in Fiji, particularly the Fiji Litter Act 2008, and classify balloon releasing as littering.” Opposition Member of Parliament Lenora Qereqeretabua called on all Fijians to take action and responsibility for their environment as she joined more than 60 children,

youths and parents at the event. “I just hope that a lot of young people will catch on to the fact that planting mangroves can make that little change, no matter how tiny, you are making a change,” she said. “It’s horrible when you’re driving behind a bus and you see someone throwing out plastic bags. “My plea to Fijians is to think. Whatever you do, think about the consequences of your action. Please have some pride in our country.” Ministry of Forests rehabilitation of degraded forests project manager Maleli Nakasava said mangrove planting was an ongoing activity over the past three years. “We have seen a lot of positive outcomes with seedlings growing well and healthy. When leaves are growing out of the seedlings, it’s a good indicator that whatever we have done in the past has been a success,” he said. “One of the major challenges of planting mangroves is the high tide, which can sometimes wash away mangrove seedlings that are not planted properly in the field.” He said behind the planting was another factor affecting Pacific Island countries – climate change. “We cannot fight climate change but we can adapt to climate change. It’s how we rehabilitate our coastal areas,” Mr Nakasava said. He said communities in other parts of Fiji were also planting mangroves with one aim to reach the 500,000-tree quota. According to Mr Nakasava, these planting activities were co-ordinated by the turaga ni koro of different villages.

Community members turned up in numbers to plant mangroves along the Nasese foreshore. Picture: HARRISON SELMEN

www.wansolwaranews.com> 2019> MAY

Regional News

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‘Leave it to Parliament’

Regional News

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USP academic weighs in on political unrest in Solomon Islands

By ROSALIE NONGEBATU A SOLOMON Islands academic says the only body that can find a legitimate solution to the situation in the Solomon Islands is the National Parliament of the Solomon Islands. Senior politics lecturer at The University of the South Pacific in Suva Dr Gordon Nanau made the suggestion following the unrest and rioting in Honiara recently by a large group of people, who were clearly unhappy with the outcome of the Prime Ministerial election in Honiara. Manasseh Sogavare was voted into power at Parliament House two weeks ago after polling 34 votes ahead of rival Matthew

the National Parliament of Solomon Islands. Wale in the 50-seat Parliament. Angry mobs took to the streets looting If the PM decides to step down based on his and causing damage to businesses, vehicles own judgement or that of his colleagues in the House, it will be up to Parliaand both private and public properment to determine the candidate ties, in protest of the election of Mr with majority support to become Sogavare’s appointment as the Solprime minister,” Dr Nanau said. omon Islands prime minister for the “Again, the process for such a fourth time. change must be through ParliaVideos and photos circulated on ment. Solomon Islanders must not social media showed men and womallow lawlessness and criminal en, running, yelling, throwing rocks at buildings and damaging vehicles Dr Gordon Nanau. activities to dictate who becomes prime minister. in the Eastern part of town. Picture: USP “Parliament must be allowed “The only body that can find a legitimate solution to the current situation is to convene soon and have a government

formed to discuss the current situation. This also calls for the 14 MPs who recently walked out of Parliament to show leadership and allow parliamentary processes to be effected. This is the only way to find a legitimate solution to the current impasse.” The Pacific Casino Hotel at Kukum, where Mr Sogavare and the Democratic Coalition for Advancement stayed in the lead up to the election, was also looted and damaged by the angry mobs. During the election period two months ago, looting took place in the eastern part of the capital while the Oceanic Marine Building at KGVI was hit by a flare.

Students miss out on voting By ROSALIE NONGEBATU As Solomon Islanders headed to the polls in April to vote for leaders whom they trust will lead them in the next four years, some were not so lucky to have this choice. Despite the fact that more than 359,000 people were registered to vote in the 2019 Solomon Islands general election, not everyone on the final voter list participated in the national exercise. Solomon Islanders living abroad were not able to vote as there were no provisions under existing electoral laws to allow citizens to vote from outside the country. More than 2000 Solomon Islanders in Fiji were among those who were not able to vote, including students at The University of the South Pacific in Suva. USP Solomon Islands Students Association president Adrian Neve says their rights to vote is being denied by the authorities and this needs to change. “Solomon Islands is a democratic country and while we appreciate the reforms implemented by the Solomon Islands Electoral

Local police used tear gas to disperse crowds in China Town. Picture: Island Business/SIBC INSET: Rioters caused extensive damage to the interior of the Pacific Casino Hotel at Kukum. Picture: Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation

Commission, a good number of us living overseas are affected as we are not given the opportunity to vote for the leader of our choice,” he said. A statement from the Electoral Commission said the current group of ap-

proved pre-poll applicants was minimal, and from lessons learnt, pre-poll voting would be improved while the other class of electors prescribed by regulation would be given the equal opportunity in future.

The Solomon Islands Government has not suspended the Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft from entering its airspace because no such aircraft has operated in their zone. Picture: SUPPLIED/SOLOMON ISLANDS BROADCASTING CORPORATION

Safe zone

Airspace all clear By ROSALIE NONGEBATU THE Solomon Islands Government will not be shutting down its airspace to Boeing 373 Max 8 aircraft as there are no such aircraft operating in the country or currently using its airspace. Solomon Islands Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, Moses Virivolomo, made the clarification in light of recent global action taken to ground operations of the Being 737 Max 8 aircraft, following the Ethiopian Airlines crash on March 10 just after take-off, killing all 157 passengers. “No 737 Max 8 aircraft operate into Honiara. At the moment, there is no action to suspend 737 Max 8 using our airspace as there are no 737 Max 8 using our airspace,” said Mr Virivolomo. Concerns were raised by Solomon Islands students studying at The University of the South Pacific in Suva. During the year, students would normally travel to and from Honiara on Fiji’s national carrier. Fiji Airways and Solomon Airlines have a code share agreement, which allows students to travel Fiji Airways even though they are booked through Solomon Airlines. USP final-year management student Maxsweeny Kekevera shared similar concerns after news broke of a global stand taken by airlines and civil aviation authorities to ground the aircraft until investigations into the Ethiopian crash were completed. “We travel on Fiji Airways to and from Honiara and while I am not sure if

it is the Max aircraft that is being used, I am concerned for the safety of fellow citizens,” he said. He was also relieved to hear that no such aircraft was operating in Honiara. “It is a relief, though, to know that no such aircraft is operating within Solomon Islands or using the airspace, but it is very import for countries operating such aircraft to stand united with other authorities around the world to ensure the safety of passengers,” Mr Kekevera said. Another final-year management student John Follet said as a regular traveller on Fiji Airways within the region, he was initially concerned by the stand taken by Fiji Airways to continue with its flights. “I am now relieved that the airline has since grounded its aircraft, in line with the global stand taken by civil aviation authorities and airlines officials. The safety of our people in the Pacific is paramount,” he said. Fiji Airways and the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji had announced a decision to temporarily ground its fleet of Boeing 737 Max aircraft, despite having full confidence of the aircraft’s airworthiness. According to American News website, Axios, more than 38 countries and about 30 airlines around the world have since suspended the operation of the Max 8 aircraft. The Ethiopian incident comes just five months after a Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft crashed in Indonesia, causing widespread concern over the aircraft’s airworthiness.

Ban on diapers sparks debate in Vanuatu By HARRISON SELMEN

Mixed opinions have surfaced in Vanuatu as the country vows to ban disposable diapers. While environmentalists and cost-conscious parents have welcomed the return and use of cloth nappies, others find plastic diapers more convenient. Former environmental officer from Vanuatu, Roger Smith, believes the Government is playing a significant 14

MAY >2019>www.wansolwaranews.com

role in addressing environmental issues. Mr Smith, who is pursuing a masters degree on environmental management at The University of the South Pacific in Suva, said the improper disposal of diapers posed harmful effects to the environment. “A disposable diaper is accessible and easy to use when it comes to travelling with your baby during long distances unlike cloth nappies where one is required to hand wash and dry,” said Lolina Martin, a student who weighed in on

the debate. The ban, which is expected to come into effect at the end of this year, may include other products such as red reusable nylon mesh bags for fruits and vegetables packaging, plastic packaging for fruits and vegetables, disposable single use plastic forks, knives, spoons, plates. Last year at COP24, Vanuatu announced it would hold fossil fuel companies accountable for the effects of climate change, the biggest environmental problem affecting Pacific Islanders.

Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft. Picture: BOEING www.wansolwaranews.com> 2018> MAY

Sports

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Ruggers make headway By

ROMEKA KUMARI

Why study journalism at USP? Radio Pasifik Multimedia 89.4FM training

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UGBY is a major sport in Fiji with players and minority communities showing a lot more interest and passion in the game. Like many island-based teams, joining provincial level competition is never easy. For the TAHA rugby club, exposure at that level and beyond is what keeps them going. TAHA is a Rotuman 15s rugby team that had recently joined the Suva Rugby Union’s Koroturaga Grade this season. Sportspeople of Rotuman descent have had their fair share of success in various sports. From weightlifting to swimming, touch rugby and basketball, powerlifting, netball and rugby, this group of minorities in Fiji are making slow but progressive steps in sports. TAHA has deep meaning for this aspiring rugby team. ‘Ta’ in the Rotuman language means “one” while ‘Ha’ is shortened from the word ‘hanua’ or home. Together, they form TAHA, one home with seven districts, one hanua, one team. The TAHA team comprises Rotuman ruggers from various Rotuman sports clubs in Fiji and students at USP’s Laucala campus, who usually compete in the annual Rotuma Games. The team includes individuals of Rotuman descent, spouses of Rotumans and a Fijian of Indian descent, who also doubles up as the volunteer physiotherapist. In addition, many Rotuman USP lecturers and tutors have come together under TAHA to play competitive rugby under the Suva Rugby Union. Former USP 15s rugby player and TAHA manager, Chris Kau’ata, says forming the TAHA 15s rugby team started after several consultations with their stakeholders. “We did consultations with our stakeholders to enter a competition, which featured intense and fair 15s rugby. The Suva Rugby Union provided a great opportunity for Rotumans in Fiji to develop our team,” Kau’ata said. “The TAHA rugby team has set a benchmark for many including the fans, team members and players. It will inspire others to take the team forward to reach greater heights. “TAHA is a platform for aspiring Rotuman rugby players, coaches and trainers to harness their skills and give back to the community after their playing days are over via means as coaches, managers and much

Members of the TAHA 15s rugby team during the early days of formation. Picture: SUPPLIED/TAHA

TAHA rugby players regroup for a team talk after a game. Picture: SUPPLIED

more.” Kau’ata said the numbers were increasing at each of their training sessions. The team’s assistant coach, Itu Kamea, hopes TAHA’s formation would inspire other regional students at USP to form a 15s rugby team. “Rugby is a sport everyone enjoys and this is also a form of entertainment and exercise. It brings smiles to people’s faces no matter who you are and where you’re from,” Kamea said. According to Kamea, there were challenges and difficulties faced by the group in the early stages of formation but after the first game many Rotumans started to show interest in the game.

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MAY >2019>www.wansolwaranews.com

“When the TAHA rugby team was growing and training had begun, there was less support in terms of players showing up during the training sessions but now the number has increased,” he said. TAHA now has a squad of more than 30 players, at least triple the number of Rotuman ruggers playing competitive rugby in Suva in recent years. For Manu Hanu’afa, rugby has always been his passion. He dreams of becoming a well-known 15s rugby player one day. “Becoming a 15s rugby player and playing on behalf of my nation is a secret dream. I’m really working hard towards achieving that,” Hanu’afa said.

“The TAHA boys are working really hard and the training session is going very well with increment of participants from two to four daily. “During our training session at the USP Laucala ground, the number of participants are increasing. “Now we can say that many Rotumans are keen to take part in the 15s club games here in Suva.” The team faced stiff competition from other Suva clubs during their debut season. Despite losing to some notably experienced sides, TAHA continues to push on as a breeding ground for Rotuman provincial rugby.

Cricketers set priorities

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THE Fiji Women’s Cricket team is ready to give it their best at the East Asia Pacific Qualifiers in Vanuatu from May 6-12. The 13-member team are hoping to secure a spot in the T20 International Cricket Committee Qualifying Games in Scotland next year. Team captain Ruci Kaiwai

told Wansolwara they were expecting a tough game especially in their first match against Samoa. “We will be playing other countries like PNG, Vanuatu, Indonesia and Japan. The competition is going to be hard and tough but I have confidence in the team. We are trying our best because we want to win this tournament. I want to see us qualify for the World Cup. “It’s going to be hard but

we are willing to give it a try,” she said. Vice-captain Marica Vua said preparation was not wholesome given the lack of assistance provided by the management in developing the team holistically. Fiji Women’s Cricket manager Tikiko Vulaca said women’s lack of recognition in the sport compared with the men’s division made it difficult for them to secure sponsorships for the team.

www.wansolwaranews.com> 2019> MAY

Sports

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Pacific Games goes green

VIRASHNA SINGH

Plastic pollution is one of the key issues faced by most nations especially in developing countries where recycling is another problem. As hosts of the 16th Pacific Games, Samoa has taken a step towards developing a clean environment by initiating the Greening of the Pacific Games project. The 16th Pacific Games is scheduled from July 7-20 in Apia. More than 3000 athletes from 22 Pacific Nations are expected to compete in 28 sports. The Pacific Games organisers, with the support of The Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), is planning to ban single-use plastic polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, single-use styrofoam, plastic cutleries, single-use plastic straws and single-use plastic

bags from the games. “The overall objective of ‘Greening the Games’ is to use major events such as the Pacific Games as a platform to bring about behavioural change for addressing waste and pollution issues, in particular marine litter and plastic pollution, by eliminating single-use plastics and styrofoam through awareness and educational activities,” said SPREP’s pollution adviser, Anthony Talouli. “We are encouraging and inspiring citizen adoption of the 4Rs – refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle.” Spectators, athletes and vendors at the games are encouraged to carry or use reusable water bottles, compostable food packaging plates, containers and cutleries and reusable shopping bags. Free, fresh and clean water stations will be located near the canteens at every sporting venue.

Captains of the teams participating in the Futsal Inter-District Championship at the National Hockey Centre in Suva this year. Picture: SUPPLIED/SHANIL SINGH

Suva takes home futsal crown, $3k SHANIL SINGH

IT’S been a long time coming for futsal lovers after the Fiji Football Association revived the interdistrict championship at the National Hockey Centre in Suva last month. Fiji FA president Jiten Reddy said the recent Futsal IDC marked efforts by Fiji FA to revive the game, which had been dormant for many years. Reddy said even though the sport was in its revival stage, there were plans in the pipeline to host more tournaments later in the year. “We will continue with our division league which is the Southern, Northern and Western divisions upon completion of this tournament,” he said. “There are plans to organise two tournaments this year, which is the Battle of the Giants (BOG) and the Fiji Fact in between the national leagues.” Reddy said Fiji FA trained 10 delegates, who now held FIFA badges to promote the game of futsal from grassroots level. “The goals is to educate the young generation as early as possible and the responsibility of these delMAY >2019>www.wansolwaranews.com

Change vital for progress By

Sports

egates is to do that by taking the sport to all schools in Fiji.” Meanwhile, former Fiji futsal rep and co-ordinator Mira Sahib said the IDC tournament was a good initiative to develop and select players for national duties. “Selecting for the national team was very difficult in recent years since we did not see players from the Northern Division very often. This tournament has given us a wide range of players to choose from, which is a bonus for us,” Sahib said. Navua futsal rep Shivnil Kumar said this was by far the most competitive tournament they had played. “We are a young team who don’t get to play competitive futsal often because of the lack of interest from other teams. “I hope there will be more tournaments to help generate interest for others as well,” he said. Suva won the Futsal IDC after defeating Nadi 3-2 in the final and scooping the $3000 prizemoney. The Bruce Hughes-captained side will play in the OFC league in Auckland, New Zealand in December.

NANISE SIVO

EMPOWERING youths to be agents of change while promoting sports for development was the focus of the first National Youth Conference organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports at The University of the South Pacific’s Laucala campus in March. More than 200 participants from across Fiji took part in the three-day event, which was opened by Minister for Youth and Sports Parveen Kumar. Mr Kumar said Government believed in young people and their ability to contribute positively to the nation. “Change is inevitable. To progress we must change. We must change our mindsets, change our attitude, change our approach and realign our focus on major issues affecting our community and our country,” he said. Youth and Sports co-ordinator Suliasi Rarawa said the conference was funded by the ministry with support from other non-governmental organisations. “At the end of the conference, youths were awarded certificates of achievement. “They gain valuable lessons and when they return to their communities, they can share their ideas.” Believe Fiji founder Joey Poy said their organisation was a religious group that worked closely with young people in building up their faith as well as focusing on the physical and spiritual life. Ms Poy said youths were a crucial part in impacting the communities and they were not only the leaders of tomorrow but of today. “Change will progress in the mindset of young people, so if we can change the mindset we will change the economy, education system and health changes will start to come into place,” she said.

Hard work pays off

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University ruggers savour opportunity

Gau Kacau Knights after their second match against CK EziBuy Tabadamu Blue at the Marist 7s tournament early this year. Picture: TALEI MATAIRAKULA

TALEI MATAIRAKULA

UNIVERSITY students playing at this year’s 43rd Fiji Bitter Marist 7s had one goal in common — to don the national rugby sevens jersey. And exposure at the highly anticipated sports event was just what they needed to hone their rugby skills. The ruggers from The University of the South Pacific (USP) and Fiji National University (FNU) were part of the Gau Kacau Knights team at the Marist 7s and used the opportunity to showcase raw talent. Waisale Lacabuka, 23, said participation in the Marist 7s tournament provided the muchneeded exposure to be a good rugby player. “This is my first time playing in the Marist 7s and I learnt a lot in terms of becoming a good skilful player in the sport,” said the land manBy

agement and geospatial student of USP. “The transition from rugby league to sevens was really hard but that will not stop me from my future plan, which is to join the Fiji sevens team.” Lacabuka said his parents motivated him to work harder and build a career for himself in sevens rugby. Another university student, Sireli Cama, said Gau Kacau Knights was a newly-formed rugby team comprising a few university students and most are also unemployed young men,” said 27-year-old Cama. The FNU student said the team was collectively working on getting players exposed to big tournaments and hopefully secure a contract overseas or don the national sevens jersey. “During this time last year, I was among the crowd watching and I told myself that one day

VENINA TINAIVUGONA

TEAM Fiji’s 35-member contingent to the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi recently returned with a major haul of 17 medals – seven gold, four silver and six bronze in total. For Tevita Veilakovikinayau Kete, winning gold in the mens 1500m long distance event was a personal feat.

I will join the players on the field. “I’m so thankful to the Lord that I got a chance to finally play in the biggest sevens tournament in Fiji.” For 20-year-old foundation history student of USP, Pio Nawaqabuli, playing rugby at the Marist 7s was a proud moment. “This is the first time for me to play in a big tournament like the Fiji Bitter Marist Sevens. Even though I’m a student, I was able to balance my academic work and training commitments well,” said Nawaqabuli. Gau Kacau Knights won their first game against Navuso Rugby Club 10-0 but later lost to defending champions CK EziBuy Tabadamu Blue 12-0. The side made it to the elimination round but lost to Hideway Hurricanes 24-5.

And while this was the first international outing for most members of Team Fiji, the 18-year-old student of Suva Special School said he was happy with his performance. “Winning the gold medal was a huge moment for me. It felt different because I ran with athletes who were much older. I felt so proud of myself,” said Kete. “I was confident of winning gold and I knew I could catch up in the last lap. During the

race, there was a competitor in front of me and I was pacing slowly behind him trying not to lose him. After that third lap I finally used all my energy to sprint to the finish line and I was so happy I came first.” The Vunidawa, Naitasiri lad said support of his parents, family and members of the community motivated him to excel in is outing. Coach Nischal Karan said Kete trained hard and deserved the win.

www.wansolwaranews.com> 2019> MAY

World Press Freedom Day 2019 ‘Journalism in times of disinformation’ www.wansolwaranews.com

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Student journos fight Wansolwara student editor Rosalie Nongebatu (Solomon Islands) responds to a question during a panel discussion on World Press Freedom Day organised by USP Journalism Programme at Laucala campus. Picture: HARRISON SELMEN

MAY >2019>www.wansolwaranews.com

ROSALIE NONGEBATU

THE importance of accessing quality information, especially during election time, cannot be overstated. My presentation is largely on my country, the Solomon Islands. Firstly, I will discuss the challenges of accessing quality information during elections, the existing electoral system, my own experiences reporting elections as a journalist, and the safety of journalists during elections. Lack of access to quality information According to the United Nations, the right to information is a fundamental human right, which underpins all other freedoms. Access to information is the ability for a person to pursue, receive and share information effectively. On the same note, the media plays a crucial role in a democracy in promoting development, upholding good governance and holding leaders accountable. In order to report more effectively to ensure citizens are kept informed and equipped to make informed decisions to benefit their lives, the media needs to impart quality information. This is a big challenge in many Pacific countries, including the Solomon Islands. In my country, many reporters are young and under trained, thus the reporting is mostly straight news, with little or no analysis. Reporters also face financial constraints, such as low wages versus the high cost of living in Honiara. Because of the country’s geography, reaching rural areas is a major hurdle. These factors hinder journalists from accessing and imparting crucial information. Freedom of Information laws Solomon Islands acceded to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption in 2012, however, the government is yet to enact and fully implement anti-corruption laws to give legislative effect to the treaty. The Freedom of Information Bill is one of the six anti-corruption Bills the former government of Mannasseh Sogavare in 2016 promised to pass in Parliament. So far only two Bills have been passed: the Anti-Corruption Act 2017, which aims to investigate and prosecute offenders in the public and private sector and the Whistle Blowers Protection Act 2016, to protect those who come forward to report corruption. The Freedom of Information Bill must be enacted as soon as possible, to further strengthen the fight against corruption. The Bill is a powerful tool that will assist local media to effectively carry out their roles as watchdogs of the government, and also to share quality information with citizens, so they in turn, can participate meaningfully in nation building and democratic processes. Corruption and its implication on elections According to the Transparency International’s 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index, Solomon Islands scored 44 out of 100. This is an all-time high compared to a record low of 27 Points in 2011. Corruption and the abuse of power is reportedly high and the recently formed JANUS is working hard to deal with corruption cases both in the government and

the private sector. JANUS is an anti-corruption taskforce established under the government’s anti-corruption strategy to investigate and prosecute those involved in corrupt practices in the government. The taskforce works closely with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution, the Ministry of Finance and various other sectors within the government. So far a good number of public servants have been arrested, including a government minister. An intending candidate of the previous election was also sentenced to jail just few days before polling day on official corruption charges. The country’s logging industry has reportedly been a source of corruption. Some logging companies have become so powerful that they allegedly influence election outcomes and government. The riots after the two prime ministerial elections in 2006 and again last week, are indicators that the people are not happy

‘

In order to report more effectively ... the media needs to impart quality information

‘

for free press

with leaders whom they perceive as corrupt, with alleged connections to logging companies. These two incidents indicate that corruption is a major cause for instability and violence in the country. The media must be vigilant in investigating corruption without fear or favour. Personal experience Having covered a few elections during my time in mainstream media, I would say we were lucky to have enjoyed the freedom of movement and reporting freely during elections. Even so, we were not without challenges. Firstly, as mentioned earlier, because of the geographical layout of the country, journalists are not able to fully cover rural or remote areas due to costly logistics, including travelling time of more than a day to get to most of the provinces in the rural areas. Any breaches against electoral processes can go unnoticed in the remote areas and people in these areas do not have access to a platform to raise concerns or ask questions. Concerns during past elections included flawed voter registration lists and alleged bribery, locally known as ‘devil’s night’. This, sadly, has been accepted as the norm, whereby intending candidates handout cash to people the night before the election in a bid to get their votes the next day.

USP Journalism coordinator Dr Shailendra Singh. Picture: HARRISON SELMEN

Journalism student Apenisa Vatuniveivuke addresses the audience as fellow panelists Kirisitiana Uluwai, left, and Eparama Warua, right, look on during World Press Freedom Day 2019 celebrations at USP. Picture: HARRISON SELMEN

While it is widely known that many candidates give money and goods in exchange for votes, only two out of the 50 MPs in the last Parliament were actually petitioned and lost their seats for such practices. There have also been concerns of fraudulent ballots, ballot box theft and voter intimidation. These developments underline the work that the media need to do to create awareness and educate people about their civic duties. People must be informed about the right channels to address grievances and that they must speak out if they know something is not right in the electoral process. However, in order to do this, the media needs to be empowered first, such as training and education, and better working conditions. This is often overlooked. In last month’s elections, the concerns remained the same—allegations of vote buying, cross-border voting and ballot box tampering in some constituencies. And, as we know, 37 former MPs retained their seats, with only 13 new members. We are seeing MPs implicated in corruption and crime, including some who have served time, or facing impending court cases, voted back into parliament. As watchdogs of the Government, I urge my colleagues to investigate and identify reasons for such trends: while the majority of the people have been denouncing corruption in government, why do they keep voting them back? It is because of the wantok system that is part of our culture? Is it because of the funds donated by the Taiwanese government for rural development? Or is it merely because of grants being cashed out by MPs when government dissolves just before election? Are these people being funded by outsiders? Critics of the electoral system are now alleging that funds such as the Rural Constituency Development Funds and the Shipping Grants allocated to MPs are a form of bribery and the local media must look into this. What can we as the media do to bring corruption by leaders into the spotlight and change the voting behaviour of people?

Media Watch Group’s Rusiate Mataika poses a question to the student panelists during a discussion on the impact of fake news. Picture: HARRISON SELMEN

Electoral processes must also be scrutinised – are they adequately serving their purpose? Why are a good number of Solomon Islanders overseas deprived of their right to vote, even when this issue has been raised more than once? These are only few of the many questions we need to ask during elections to protect and strengthen our democracy. The safety of journalists Reporting during election is not always easy. I vividly remember reporting on the prime ministerial election in 2006 from outside the Parliament House while some colleagues were stationed inside. I was seven months pregnant with my first child. There was a crowd of people outside the parliament building who were repeatedly told by police to move back – the crowd was becoming restless because they were not happy with the announcement of Snider Rini as the Prime Minister-elect. The riot broke out after a rock was thrown at the face of a RAMSI police officer stationed just outside the doors of

USP linguistics lecturer Dr Candide Simard. Picture: HARRISON SELMEN

Parliament. It ripped the side of his jaw open. There was frenzy and rocks thrown everywhere amidst the teargas fired at the crowd. A crowd had formed near our vehicle and they were gathering around to lift the vehicle, with the aim of rolling it down the hill. At this time various police vehicles were already set on fire. Our driver told me to quickly follow a footpath through the overgrown grass that was used as a shortcut to get back to Point Cruz, which is where the town is situated. People had already started looting as I hurried past them, walking quickly back to the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation, which was a good distance from town. My colleagues were stuck in the parliament building for hours, until the rioters moved down to China Town. In this election we saw a repeat. I am sure that with the riots in the recent weeks, my colleagues on the ground reporting on the prime ministerial election would have also fled for their safety. This is only one account, but there are many untold stories of the threat, hardships, attacks and the dangers my colleagues back at home face during election time. Conclusion On this World Press Freedom Day, I would like to pay tribute to my colleagues in the Solomon Islands for their crucial role in upholding the ethics and principles of journalism in the face of many adversities. The important role of my colleagues must not be taken for granted, thus authorities must uphold their obligation to respect and protect the rights to press freedom and access to information, which are necessities for citizen empowerment and sustainable development. n Rosalie Nongebatu is the editor of Wansolwara, USP Journalism’s student training newspaper and online publication. She delivered this statement during a panel discussion on World Press Freedom Day 2019 organised by USP Journalism at Laucala campus. www.wansolwaranews.com> 2019> MAY

2019 - Semester 1

in Pictures Major events & developments

The Marshall Islands Students’ Association organised a march to celebrate Nuclear Victim’s Remembrance Day at Laucala campus on March 1. Picture: EPELI LALAGAVESI

Crown Prince of Norway Haakon Magnus speaks to journalism students at Laucala campus. Picture: ROMEKA KUMARI

Australian Pime Minister Scott Morrison arrives at USP’s Japan-Pacific ICT Centre in Suva. He is greeted by Minister for Education Rosy Akbar, USP Pro-Chancellor Winston Thompson and USP Vice-Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia. Picture: SUPPLIED/DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION

USP Confucius Institute staff members and colleagues at the 2019 Fiji Fashion Week in Suva. Picture: SUPPLIED

USP students during a prayer vigil for victims of the Christchurch massacre early this year. Picture: JUNIOR OIOFA

USP gold medal recipient Diana Taga from Vanuatu with her spoils. Picture: JUNIOR OIOFA

RBF Governor Ariff Ali during an alumni lecture evening atUSP’s Graduate School of Business this year. Picture: SUPPLIED/SPAC

From left: Samisoni Pareti (EJN Fiji content coordinator), Amy Sim Kok (Internews EJN project manager), Dr Shailendra Singh (USP Journalism coordinator), Imelda Abano (Internews EJN content coordinator for Philippines and Pacific region) and James Fahn (EJN director), at the Earth Journalism Network/Internews Environmental Journalism workshop in Puerto Princesa, Philippines early this year. Picture: SUPPLIED/EJN

USP chancellor Taneti Maamau presents graduate Dr Jale Samuwai with his PhD in climate change at USP’s graduation ceremony in March. Picture: USP COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE

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(Seated from L-R): Professor Derrick Armstrong, Professor Elisa Morgera, British High Commissioner Melanie Hopkins and USP’s vice-chancellor and president, Professor Pal Ahluwalia, with the One Ocean Hub team at USP during the launch in February. Picture: USP COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE

USP deputy vice-chancellor research and international, Professor Derrick Armstrong, left, accompanies Crown Prince of Norway Haakon Magnus, right, during the royal’s first official visit to Fiji this year. Picture: JUNIOR OIOFA

USP librarian Elizabeth Reade Fong and Professor Pal Ahluwalia outside the new Library Learning Commons room at Laucala campus. Picture: USP COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Disaster Management and Meteorological Services Jone Usamate (garlanded) during the launch of USP’s Orientation Week in January. Picture: SUPPLIED/SPAC

AUSPS Women’s Wing president Rosalia Fatiaki, Professor Vijay Naidu and Associate Professor Sandra Tarte during International Women’s Day celebration in March. Picture: SUPPLIED/AUSPS WOMEN’S WING

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