Representatives from Fiji National University (FNU), University of Otago and The Pacific Community (SPC) at the official opening of the Regional Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance and Genomics at FNU on Saturday. Dignitaries in attendance included, seated in the front row (left to right), Turaga na Tui Suva (High Chief of Suva), Ratu Sanaila Mudunavosa, University of Otago Vice-Chancellor Hon Grant Robertson, and FNU Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research Professor Nii-K Plange.
The University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka has marked a significant milestone in regional health collaboration with the opening of the Regional Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance and Genomics at Fiji National University (FNU).
Officially opened on Saturday (28 March), the centre is a joint initiative between FNU, Otago and The Pacific Community (SPC) and will bolster disease surveillance and prevention efforts across the Pacific.
By supporting local capacity for pathogen genomic sequencing, the centre will strengthen the Pacific’s ability to respond to antimicrobial resistance through improved testing, tracking and early disease detection.
An Otago delegation, led by Vice-Chancellor Hon Grant Roberston, attended the opening alongside FNU partners, underpinning the collaboration behind the centre.
Otago Microbiology and Immunology researcher Dr Sakiusa Baleivanualala played an instrumental role in establishing the centre, continuing his work to build genomic sequencing capability in Fiji and across the region.
Sakiusa, who graduated from Otago with a Doctorate in Philosophy in Microbiology in 2025, has been at the forefront of efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance in the Pacific, using genomic tools to better understand and track infectious diseases for the benefit of Pacific communities.
His work has previously been recognised in Otago and Pacific media, highlighting his goal of establishing Fiji’s first pathogen genomic sequencing capability.
“This centre strengthens Pacific capacity in genomics and antimicrobial resistance surveillance for and by the Pacific, improving health outcomes and pandemic preparedness across the region,” Sakiusa says.
“It also advances research in the Pacific through access to cutting-edge technology housed within the centre, reducing reliance on overseas testing and strengthening local response capacity.”
Sakiusa was recently appointed Associate Dean Pacific for the Faculty of Biomedical Sciences at Otago, further reflecting his leadership in advancing Pacific-focused research and education pathways.
Otago Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Distinguished Professor Gregory Cook says, “It is both inspiring and heartening to see Pacific graduates from the University of Otago giving back to their nations and leading efforts to build local knowledge and capacity to tackle antimicrobial resistance”.