BY JUNELYN KELLY
Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has proudly announced that Associate Professor Eric Katovai, Acting Vice-Chancellor and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic), has been formally inducted as a Fellow of the Pacific Academy of Sciences (PAS).
The induction took place during the 2026 PAS Congress held in Apia, Samoa, from February 16–18 2026, according to a statement released on the university’s Facebook page last week.
The fellowship recognises Professor Katovai’s significant and sustained contributions to research, education and scientific leadership across the Pacific region. His extensive work in forest ecology, biodiversity conservation and regional science leadership has played a key role in strengthening research capacity and environmental stewardship in Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific.
Beyond his leadership at SINU, Associate Professor Katovai is actively involved in several regional research and capacity-building initiatives. These include the Livelihoods in Forest Ecosystems Recovery (LIFER) programme, where he collaborates with local and international partners, as well as the Women’s Leadership in STEM research initiative across four Pacific Island universities.
He also serves as an Adjunct Associate Professor at the Queensland University of Technology, where he co-supervises two PhD students under the LIFER project. In addition, he co-supervises two PhD candidates at the University of the South Pacific and is set to begin supervising Master’s by Research students at SINU this year, further supporting the university’s expansion of higher degree research training.
Following his induction as a Fellow of PAS, Associate Professor Katovai expressed deep humility and dedicated the honour to those who have supported his academic journey. He said he hopes the recognition will inspire young Pacific scientists and ultimately benefit the people of the region.
Solomon Islands’ presence at the PAS Congress was further highlighted by presentations from other SINU researchers.
Dr Lionel Kakai, Head of the School of Science, delivered a paper titled Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Solomon Islands, focusing on the engineering traditions of artificial islands. His presentation underscored the cultural and enduring importance of indigenous engineering and ecological knowledge.
Mrs Dawnie Katovai, who is nearing completion of her PhD under the Pacific-European Union Marine Partnership (PEUMP) programme, presented on conservation efforts in Fiji and Solomon Islands. Her presentation emphasised the critical role of traditional knowledge in developing community-based conservation and sustainable resource management.
Photo: SINU
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