As we celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity, the University of Fiji urged communities, governments, and institutions to continue working together to protect biodiversity and strengthen conservation efforts for future generations.
This year’s theme, “Acting locally for global change,” highlights the importance of restoring ecosystems, protecting natural resources, and strengthening the connection between people and nature.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem said biodiversity conservation was essential for the future of Fiji, the Pacific region, and the world.
“Like the benefits of diversity in every human condition, the environment, similarly, is enriched by biodiversity not only to protect but also to promote and, in many cases, especially where damage is caused by carelessness or ignorance, to restore”.
Head of the Department of Science and Associate Professor, Dr Ramendra Prasad, said biodiversity remained one of the most important foundations of life and sustainable development, particularly for Pacific Island nations such as Fiji.
“Biodiversity is closely connected to our environment, economy, food security, health, and cultural identity. The Pacific region is recognised globally for its rich and unique biodiversity, and it is our responsibility to ensure that these ecosystems are protected for future generations,” Dr Prasad said.
Dr Prasad said increasing human activities such as habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, invasive species, and overexploitation of natural resources continued to threaten ecosystems worldwide.
He said Fiji had continued to demonstrate leadership in biodiversity conservation through community-driven initiatives, environmental policies, and sustainable ecosystem management programmes.
“Fiji’s efforts in marine protected areas, mangrove restoration, blue carbon initiatives, ecosystem rehabilitation, and biodiversity policy development are positive examples of how local action can contribute towards global environmental change,” he said.
He added that education and research played a critical role in strengthening biodiversity conservation efforts and raising awareness among younger generations.
“At the University of Fiji, we continue to integrate biodiversity and conservation studies into our academic programmes to help students understand the relationship between biodiversity, climate resilience, culture, and sustainable development,” he said.
The University of Fiji’s Department of Science currently offers “Biodiversity and Conservation” courses within several programmes as part of its commitment to environmental education and sustainability.
The University also acknowledges Fiji’s ongoing work in strengthening national biodiversity strategies, community-based conservation programmes, and collaborative partnerships involving government agencies, civil society organisations, regional institutions, and local communities.
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