UNESCO Pacific

The launch of the Pathway for the Development of Samoa (PDS2) - a visionary roadmap for a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable future - marks an important milestone in Samoa's sustainable development journey.

Officially launched on 8 June 2026 by the Honourable Prime Minister, La'aulialemalietoa Polataivao Leuatea Fosi Schmidt, the new national strategy sets out a comprehensive vision for a more resilient, inclusive and prosperous Samoa while placing renewed emphasis on the role of culture, education, science and knowledge in achieving sustainable development outcomes.

The launch of PDS2 demonstrates how integrated approaches that bring together culture, knowledge, education, science and innovation can help build a more resilient, inclusive and prosperous future. Samoa's strengthened recognition of culture alongside investments in education, resilience and sustainable development offers an inspiring example for the wider Pacific region and reinforces the importance of placing people, heritage and knowledge at the heart of development.

As Samoa embarks on the implementation of PDS2, UNESCO remains committed to supporting national priorities across culture, education, science, communication and information through policy advice, technical cooperation, capacity development and regional partnerships.

Samoa Launches New National Development Strategy with Culture The launch of the Pathway for the Development of Samoa (PDS2) FY2026/27–FY2030/31 marks an important milestone in Samoa's sustainable development journey. Officially launched on 8 June 2026 by the

Words have power — and so do the platforms that carry them. Hate speech affects the whole of society. It does not remain confined to its targets — it spreads, divides, and leaves lasting consequences across communities.

This is why confronting it requires the whole of society to hold the platforms accountable in how information is amplified, moderated, and shared. Responsibility is collective and silence is never neutral.

Join us to celebrate International Day against Hate Speech this year!

The power of words – Social Media 4 Peace Words have power. They can unite us or break us apart. Today, with ...

Fiji advances integrated geophysical hazard preparedness through its first national SOP workshop with UNESCO support

From 8–9 June 2026, Fiji's representatives from technical agencies, disaster risk management authorities, emergency services, community stakeholders, development partners and regional organizations gathered in Suva for Fiji’s First National Integrated Geophysical Hazard Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Workshop.

Led in collaboration with the Mineral Resources Department, the National Disaster Risk Management Office (Fiji NDMO), the Fiji Meteorological Service and Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, the workshop reviewed existing arrangements for earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic hazards, volcano-generated tsunamis and landslides.

Participants examined the entire early warning chain, from hazard detection and monitoring to warning dissemination, community preparedness and response, with a focus on strengthening coordination, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and identifying operational gaps.

The workshop marks an important milestone in Fiji’s efforts to build a more coordinated, inclusive and people-centred multi-hazard early warning system aligned with the UN Early Warnings for All initiative.

With the support of Japan - The Government of Japan, JICA Fiji Office, UNESCO continues working with national and regional partners to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience across the Pacific.

See more: https://unes.co/7bp570

UNESCO Guide for Journalists on covering Hate Speech

Hate speech threatens social cohesion, democratic dialogue, and human rights. Journalists and media professionals play a critical role in responding to these challenges ethically.

Explore the UNESCO’s Guide for Journalists “Covering Hate Speech” that provides practical recommendations on how journalism can balance freedom of expression with the rights to dignity, equality, and non-discrimination.

Link to the resources: https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000392378

Hate speech threatens social cohesion, democratic dialogue, and human rights.

is a key tool for building resilience against harmful online content, strengthening critical thinking, and promoting inclusive and informed societies.

On the occasion of the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, discover key messages from UNESCO’s new Issue Brief: “Media and Information Literacy: Combating Hate Speech in the Digital Age” at the link below:

https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000398298

🎉International Day for Countering Hate Speech

Join UNESCO on 18 June for the launch of the new Issue Brief “Media and Information Literacy: Combating Hate Speech in the Digital Age during the webinar: “Countering Hate Speech in the Digital Age: Promoting Information Integrity and Resilient Societies”

Date: 18 June 2026
Time: 13:30–15:00 CEST
Register: https://unesco-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_RmmOuj6OQ1O10SkETpVldw

UN in Samoa UN in Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu & Vanuatu UN Multi Country Office in Micronesia United Nations in Papua New Guinea

IGNITING THE FUTURE! The Solomon Islands UNESCO/MEHRD Education STEM Launch!

St Nicholas Anglican College in Honiara, Solomon Islands was buzzing with energy today Tuesday 26 May at the official launch of the “Fostering STEM Education in Africa and SIDS” project! ✨ The atmosphere was vibrant as the next generation of Solomon Islands innovators took center stage. The grounds of St. Nicholas Anglican College came alive with a vibrant display of talent! Student teams—featuring both brilliant girls and boys—wowed the crowd with hands-on STEM activities, proving that the future of science and technology is in very capable hands.

Inspiration was everywhere as leaders shared their vision for a tech-savvy nation:
💡 "STEM education is no longer an optional luxury; it is the very engine of the modern economy." — Dr. Franco Rodie, Permanent Secretary, MEHRD.
🤝 "Education is not only connecting the future of your nation, but also connecting the peoples of our two countries." — Gu Wenlong, Head of Political Section, Chinese Embassy.
🌟 "Together, we can inspire the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders." Berris Olitisa, National Project Officer (on behalf of Sardar Umar Alam, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for the Pacific States).

With a focus on breaking stereotypes and empowering every student, the Solomon Islands is officially on the path to becoming a hub of innovation. This launch is a "profound milestone" in our journey to nurture a generation of innovative, tech-savvy Solomon Islanders. The revolution in our classrooms starts NOW!

JOIN OUR TEAM!

UNESCO Office for the Pacific States is inviting applications for a Technical Assistance – Carpentry and Joinery Curriculum Development consultancy under the Education Sector.

The consultancy supports the Ministry of Education and Culture (MEC) under the System Transformation Grant (STG) Project, a GPE-funded education reform initiative implemented with UNESCO as Grant Agent. The Project focuses on strengthening inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education across early childhood, primary, and secondary levels, with a specific emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) pathways in secondary schooling.

The Technical Expert will work with MEC’s Curriculum, Materials and Development Division to design and upgrade a competency-based TVET curriculum in Carpentry and Joinery (Certificate Level 1). The assignment includes reviewing existing curriculum materials, identifying gaps, and developing an improved programme aligned with national frameworks and labour market needs, including integration of digital and green skills.

▪️ Type of contract: Short-Term Contract
▪️ Duty station: Apia, Samoa
▪️ Duration: 5 months
▪️ Open to: External candidates
▪️ Application deadline: 5 June 2026 (11:59 p.m.)

Consultants or consultancy firms with relevant expertise are invited to apply.

More information and application details: https://careers.unesco.org/job/Apia-Technical-Assistance-Carpentry-and-Joinery-Curriculum-Development/1361700757/

🇼🇸 Samoa is strengthening tsunami preparedness—community by community.

On 21 May 2026, the Government of Samoa, with support from Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO and the United States Government officially launched the Samoa Tsunami Ready Recognition Programme during National Environment Week 2026.

The initiative will support 37 villages to strengthen tsunami preparedness, while Savaia Villages renews its recognition as a Tsunami Ready community.

The programme helps communities build readiness through risk knowledge, warning systems, evacuation planning, public awareness, drills, signage, and coordinated action. It also strengthens national capacity through technical training for Sāmoa Meteorological Service Office and Disaster Management Office - Samoa, along with support for hazard assessment and preparedness planning.

As Hon. Ale Vena Ale, Samoa’s Minister of Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Samoa, noted, this launch is “an important step forward in protecting our people and strengthening disaster preparedness across our communities.”

Mr Sardar Umar Alam, Director of the UNESCO Pacific Office, also underscored that resilience in the Pacific is built community by community.

Together, Samoa and its partners are advancing people-centred early warning systems and building safer, more resilient coastal communities across the Pacific.

See more: https://unes.co/uo264p

🌏 UNESCO Regional Office for the Pacific States was proud to partner with the Fiji Museum and cultural partners across Fiji to celebrate International Museum Day 2026 under this year’s theme: “Museums Uniting a Divided World.”

At a time of increasing global uncertainty, museums continue to play a vital role as spaces for dialogue, understanding and connection. Across the Pacific, they safeguard living heritage, traditional knowledge, languages and stories that continue to shape communities today.

The celebration also marked an important milestone in the partnership between UNESCO and the Fiji Museum through the unveiling of UNESCO signage, reaffirming our shared commitment to strengthening the safeguarding, preparedness and long-term protection of Fiji’s cultural heritage.

Through ongoing cooperation, UNESCO has supported efforts to strengthen the Fiji Museum’s safety, security and digital infrastructure, contributing to the protection of over 3,700 years of irreplaceable cultural artefacts and reinforcing institutional resilience for future generations.

We also acknowledge the continued commitment and cooperation of the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts, under the leadership of Hon. Charan Jeath Singh and Dr. Vinesh Kumar, together with the Fiji Arts Council and all partners who contributed to this celebration.

Culture connects us — preserving our identity while shaping the future we build together ✨