A message from the Associate Dean Pacific

Talofa lava, Mālō e lelei, Taloha ni, Kia orana, Fakaaalofa lahi atu, Ni sa bula vinaka, Ia orana, Mauri, Iọkwe eok, Ekamowir omo, Alii, Halo olaketa, Tālofa, Halo, and warm Pacific greetings.

Within the medical profession, there is very little Pacific representation because of the misguidance around the different vocational pathways available in healthcare, such as pharmacy, audiology, optometry and nursing.

If students do not get into medicine, they are deterred from pursuing other pathways in healthcare and therefore disappear. We want to ensure right from year nine that Pacific students and their families are fully aware of the requirements to get into a health-related programme and bring awareness to the different vocational pathways within the industry.

We also aim to upskill our current Pacific medical professionals and provide scholarships for further professional development at the University to build a strong Pacific workforce. This will help to further encourage young people interested in pursuing a career in health.

Covid-19 has had a huge impact on our Pacific community nationally and globally. From the pandemic, misinformation and conspiracy theories became apparent with the likes of Pacific communities being non-compliant as a result. Further research is needed to counter these ideas and provide our communities with the right tools and information to help combat health issues.