Pacific universities must adapt to tackle financial struggles, technological challenges and geopolitical issues, says University of the South Pacific Vice-Chancellor Professor Pal Ahluwalia.

One fatality has been confirmed following a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Vanuatu’s capital Port Vila this afternoon.

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake rocked Vanuatu, leaving the capital city and surrounding areas reeling from significant damage, casualties, and disrupted services.

Australian and New Zealand experts say while not all major earthquakes will trigger tsunamis, the one in Vanuatu today is expected to have caused significant structural damage due to its depth.

Tourism Fiji Chief Executive Brent Hill is urging prospective visitors to continue with their travel plans to Fiji, particularly during the peak holiday season.

In a bid to address Fiji’s essential medicine supply issues, Pacific Specialist Hospital is establishing a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant to improve access to vital drugs.

Fiji continues to struggle with vaccine hesitancy, which has been made worse by misinformation and disinformation, particularly regarding COVID-19 and the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

The Fiji Architects Association is looking at ways to boost the number of local architects in the country.

A tsunami watch is in place for all coastal low lying areas of the country following a 7.3 magnitude earthquake 37km northwest of Port Villa, Vanuatu this afternoon.

An earthquake of magnitude 7.4 struck Vanuatu’s capital Port Vila on Tuesday, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said, with footage showing damage to a building hosting the United States embassy.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Crime, Mesake Waqa says they are conducting the necessary investigations to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the death of the 41-year-old acting resort manager in Wailoaloa, Nadi.

Warwick Fiji Resort says it wants to reassure all guests that they maintain the highest standards of food and beverage safety.