NUV, France boost higher education cooperation

The National University of Vanuatu (NUV) recently had the honor of welcoming Ms. Véronique Roger-Lacan, the French Ambassador for the Pacific, on her first official visit to Vanuatu. This visit underscores the importance of the bilateral relationship between France and Vanuatu.

Ms. Roger-Lacan was accompanied by Mr. Jean-Baptiste Jeangène Vilmer, the French Ambassador to Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands, as well as senior officials from both embassies. The presence of these officials highlights the commitment to strengthening ties.

The Vice-Chancellor, Pro Vice-Chancellor, and key university representatives of the National University of Vanuatu engaged in discussions with the French delegation on strategic themes aimed at improving academic cooperation and student mobility. The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between the National University of Vanuatu and French universities in the Pacific region, particularly through academic and research partnerships, as well as the regional student mobility scheme announced by French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to New Caledonia and Vanuatu in July 2023. This partnership aims to provide more opportunities for students in the region.

Discussions also covered ongoing projects supported by France through the French Development Agency and the Embassy Fund, aimed at expanding educational opportunities for Vanuatu's students and youth. The dialogue emphasized the importance of equitable access to training and higher education, employability, and regional mobility to help alleviate the challenges faced by young people. The meeting also reviewed the political developments in New Caledonia, recent natural disasters, and the impact of the Vila earthquake on education and youth development, recognizing the economic and social connections between the two nations. These discussions demonstrated a holistic approach to addressing the needs of the region.

The importance of inter-university agreements with the University of New Caledonia and the University of French Polynesia was highlighted as a key factor in promoting academic exchange, student engagement, and capacity-building initiatives. Both parties reaffirmed the importance of higher education as a critical driver of sustainable development in Vanuatu and the wider Pacific region, and agreed to further strengthen partnerships in education, research, and student mobility. This collaboration is expected to yield significant benefits for both countries.

The Vice-Chancellor of the National University of Vanuatu, Jean-Pierre Nirua, acknowledged the significance of the visit. "This visit reaffirms France's strong commitment to supporting higher education and research, and to strengthening the Francophone presence in Vanuatu and the Pacific region through closer inter-university cooperation between the National University of Vanuatu, the University of New Caledonia, and the University of French Polynesia," he said. This commitment is vital for the future of education in the region.

"I thank Ambassador Roger-Lacan for visiting our university and for the open discussions we held. The National University of Vanuatu values its collaboration with its French partners and looks forward to expanding these ties. Strengthening academic networks and promoting regional cooperation will provide more opportunities for our students, researchers, and faculty." The Vice-Chancellor's remarks emphasized the importance of the ongoing partnership.

This visit symbolizes the shared commitment of France and Vanuatu to advance higher education, promote knowledge exchange, and address regional challenges through education and research. The National University of Vanuatu extends its sincere gratitude to Ambassador Roger-Lacan and her delegation for their engagement and support. This visit marks another milestone in the growing relationship between France and Vanuatu, paving the way for future initiatives that will benefit students and the wider academic community. This collaboration promises a brighter future for education and research in the Pacific region.