Developing experts in Fiji and the South
Pacific region is critical in further discoveries and documentation of new
species. USP, as a highly recognised institution in Fiji is one place where opportunities
are given to develop quality researchers. This is because of the quality resources
available and the institution’s successful collaboration with quality researchers
abroad. USP has proved to have developed quality researchers and this could be
seen by the success of the student researchers it produces. For instance, the
discovery of a newly recorded plant in Fiji by a Graduate student researcher
and field assistants at USP shows the capability of Fiji in making new
discoveries on their own without depending on foreign scientists to make new
discoveries for them. The plant, which was a bryophyte plant, was a result of a
study taken for the first time in Fiji and the region. USP Vice-Chancellor
Professor Rajesh Chandra said the finding of a plant species never recorded in
Fiji before was an example of the need to develop our capacity for research
within the Pacific Island countries. He said it represented a significant step
in the development of independence of our societies and nation and it was
important that people in Fiji realise this. Collections Manager and Adjunct Curator at the Field Museum ofNational History in USA Dr Matt Von Konrat said the discovery reinforces the
fact that there are many exciting discoveries remaining both for Fiji and the
region. Konrat said the new finding highlighted that nothing could replace
having a resident expert.
