UNESCO Pacific

19/05/2026

🌏 UNESCO Regional Office for the Pacific States was proud to partner with the Fiji Museum and cultural partners across Fiji to celebrate International Museum Day 2026 under this year’s theme: “Museums Uniting a Divided World.”

At a time of increasing global uncertainty, museums continue to play a vital role as spaces for dialogue, understanding and connection. Across the Pacific, they safeguard living heritage, traditional knowledge, languages and stories that continue to shape communities today.

The celebration also marked an important milestone in the partnership between UNESCO and the Fiji Museum through the unveiling of UNESCO signage, reaffirming our shared commitment to strengthening the safeguarding, preparedness and long-term protection of Fiji’s cultural heritage.

Through ongoing cooperation, UNESCO has supported efforts to strengthen the Fiji Museum’s safety, security and digital infrastructure, contributing to the protection of over 3,700 years of irreplaceable cultural artefacts and reinforcing institutional resilience for future generations.

We also acknowledge the continued commitment and cooperation of the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts, under the leadership of Hon. Charan Jeath Singh and Dr. Vinesh Kumar, together with the Fiji Arts Council and all partners who contributed to this celebration.

Culture connects us — preserving our identity while shaping the future we build together ✨

19/05/2026

Kiribati is transforming its education system through ICT innovation with the launch of the US$2.5 million Kiribati ICT Transformation of Education Systems (KITES) Project, supported by the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), with UNESCO serving as Grant Agent.

Led by the Ministry of Education, the four-year initiative will expand equitable access to quality learning across Kiribati’s dispersed islands through digital learning, teacher development, resilient ICT infrastructure, and strengthened education data systems.

The project marks an important step towards achieving SDG 4 and ensuring that learners in remote and underserved communities are not left behind.

The initiative reflects a strong partnership for impact between the Government of Kiribati, GPE, UNESCO, DFAT, and development partners to advance quality education for all.

Global Partnership for Education MOE Kiribati Australian High Commission, Kiribati

19/05/2026

Samoa commemorated World Press Freedom Day 2026 with a week-long programme led by the Journalists Association of W Samoa - JAWS, bringing together government representatives, development partners, and members of the media to highlight the importance of press freedom for democracy, development, and human rights.

The celebration was particularly significant as JAWS marked its 50th anniversary, recognizing five decades of commitment to ethical journalism, freedom of expression, and media development in Samoa and across the Pacific.

UNESCO Regional Director for the Pacific, Sardar Umar Alam, emphasized in his keynote that “press freedom is essential for peaceful, inclusive, and resilient societies, and that in an era of rapid disinformation driven by social media and AI, journalism remains a vital line of defence against misinformation and social fragmentation”.

UNESCO continues to support Member States in the Pacific in advancing media development, enhancing the safety of journalists, and promoting access to information as a cornerstone of sustainable development.

Samoa commemorated World Press Freedom Day 2026 with a week-long programme led by the Journalists Association of Samoa (JAWS), bringing together government representatives, development partners, and

05/05/2026

🎷✨ Samoana Jazz Rising – International Jazz Day 2026 ✨🎷

On 30 April 2026, Samoana Jazz Rising brought together over 150 participants in a vibrant celebration of Samoa’s musical talent, marking the 15th anniversary of International Jazz Day — an initiative established by UNESCO and celebrated in over 190 countries worldwide, in partnership with the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz.

Hosted by Tiapapata Art Centre, the event opened with an engaging educational session and jazz jam, which created a dynamic space for exchange between experienced musicians and emerging talent. UNESCO warmly acknowledges the participation of local artists, including Joe Annandale and the Sinalei Strings, alongside young learners, whose interaction fostered creativity, mentorship, and shared learning. This spirit of exchange was further enriched by the participation of the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s 4-piece Ensemble, whose collaboration with local musicians contributed to meaningful intercultural dialogue through music.

UNESCO extends its sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Honourable Minister for their valued support, including facilitating the participation of the National Orchestra of Samoa. Their performance during the concert segment was a highlight of the evening, showcasing the talent and commitment of Samoa’s musicians, including its emerging generation, and reflecting the continued vitality of the national music sector.

The jazz concert brought together a diverse group of artists — including the Sinalei Strings, Siutu Meyer, Rosa and Philton Solomona, Michael Tamanikaiyaroi, Benjamin and Tanuvasa Faamanatu Solomona , Stuart Wallace, Harry Laban, and Iosefa and Ben Percival— in a spirit of collaboration and artistic exchange. The event demonstrated the strength of Samoa’s creative community and the value of creating spaces where musicians can connect, perform, and learn from one another.

Beyond the celebration of jazz, the event highlighted the importance of sustained support for Samoa’s cultural and creative sectors, including investment in cultural infrastructure, arts education, and opportunities for artists to engage locally, regionally, and internationally. UNESCO looks forward to continued collaboration with partners to further strengthen these efforts.

Ministry of Education and Culture
The National Orchestra Of Samoa
U.S. Pacific Fleet Band
Tiapapata Art Centre Inc.

28/04/2026

In recognition of the International Day of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), observed on 25 April, the UNESCO Regional Office for the Pacific States marked the Day in Fiji, on the sidelines of the CURUI Pacific Regional Workshop on Life Skills and Climate Smart Education, which brought together participants from across the Pacific.

Through village visits and direct engagement with local communities, participants gained deeper insights into the realities faced by SIDS, from geographic isolation and environmental fragility to the growing impacts of climate change. Tree-planting activities also reflected a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and climate action.

The Day serves as an important platform to raise awareness, strengthen partnerships, and promote solidarity, while recognizing the unique strengths, cultures, and leadership of SIDS in advancing sustainable development. Together, we continue to support island communities and work towards more sustainable and resilient futures.

27/04/2026

UNESCO Celebrates International Jazz Day 2026 in Samoa with “Samoana Jazz Rising” on 30 April 2026

UNESCO supports the celebration of International Jazz Day 2026 in Samoa with Samoana Jazz Rising, a vibrant and dynamic event to be held on 30 April at the Tiapapata Art Centre in Apia. Free and open to the public, the celebration invites communities across Samoa to join a global movement highlighting the power of jazz.

In Samoa, Samoana Jazz Rising, organized in collaboration with members of the Samoana Jazz and Arts Festival community, will bring together musicians from Samoa, American Samoa, and across the Pacific. The event offers a dynamic platform for musical exchange, creativity, and community participation. The programme will feature a diverse lineup of artists, including Stuart Wallace, Michael Tamanikaiyaroi, Island Touch and the Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa String Band. The event offers a dynamic platform for musical exchange, creativity, and community participation.

UNESCO supports the celebration of International Jazz Day 2026 in Samoa with Samoana Jazz Rising, a vibrant and dynamic event to be held on 30 April at the Tiapapata Art Centre in Apia. Free and open

26/04/2026

Day 5 marked the culmination of a week of learning, collaboration, and co-creation.

Countries presented their action plans, outlining clear pathways to strengthen the integration of PETALS and climate change & environmental education within their national systems. These presentations reflected not only technical progress, but also a strong sense of ownership and commitment moving forward.
The workshop concluded with a shared reflection on key lessons, regional priorities, and opportunities for continued collaboration beyond the workshop.

As we close this chapter, the journey continues, towards more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready education systems across the Pacific.

24/04/2026

is not only about the past; it holds the key to climate resilience.

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) draw on these traditions to face growing risks and build sustainable futures.

On the frontlines of climate disruption, Pacific communities across Fiji, Tonga and Vanuatu are drawing on traditional knowledge to manage growing risks and adapt to a changing environment.

Together with the Government of Japan, UNESCO works with communities to safeguard and transmit these practices, which play a key role in strengthening food security, sustaining livelihoods and building cyclone-resilient shelters.

On the International Day for SIDS, we recognise the role of intangible cultural heritage in supporting well-being, recovery and sustainable development.

Discover how these initiatives are making a difference: https://bit.ly/4mXXoSn

Ministry of itaukei Affairs
Vanuatu Cultural Centre
Vanuatu Kaljoral Senta
Ministry of Tourism and Culture in Tonga

24/04/2026

After days of deep learning and collaboration, Day 4 was about turning insights into action.
Building on the past days’ work, participants presented their curriculum mapping matrices, highlighting key strengths, gaps, and opportunities to better integrate PETALS and climate change & environmental education. Through peer feedback and mentor guidance, these insights were refined into practical and context-specific strategies.

The day then shifted towards action planning, where countries began developing clear, realistic roadmaps to strengthen curricula, pedagogies, and assessment systems moving forward.
With collaboration at the core, Day 4 marked an important step from reflection to commitment and implementation.

24/04/2026

🎷 Calling all musicians and jazz lovers in Samoa! 🎷

Celebrate International Jazz Day 2026 with Samoana Jazz Rising on 30 April at the Tiapapata Art Centre in Apia—a vibrant, free event supported by UNESCO and open to everyone.

The day will begin with an interactive jazz exchange session, welcoming young learners, emerging and established musicians to come together, jam, and learn from one another in an open and inclusive space. The celebration will continue with an evening concert featuring talented artists from Samoa and across the Pacific, showcasing the richness and diversity of jazz in our region.

Whether you play, sing, or simply love music, this is your opportunity to be part of a global celebration of jazz as a force for creativity, dialogue, and connection.

🎶 Engage, learn and share through music
🎷 Open to all musicians—bring your instrument, your voice, your creativity!

📍 Tiapapata Art Centre Inc.
🕓 16:00–17:30 | Interactive Educational Jazz Jam
🕕 18:00–20:00 | Evening Jazz Concert
🆓 Free & open to the public

⚠️ Spaces are limited – please register in advance @ https://bit.ly/4sQEf68



👇© UNESCO/Mitch Makani

23/04/2026

Day 3 of the Curui Greening Curriculum and Skills Development Workshop deepened the journey from curriculum to classroom practice.

Participants explored how PETALS and climate change & environmental education come to life through pedagogies, assessments, and digital learning approaches. Discussions focused on culturally relevant teaching methods and practical ways to strengthen how these skills are delivered and assessed across Pacific contexts.

A highlight of the day was the field visit, offering participants a unique opportunity to see how life skills and climate education are integrated in real learning environments, bridging theory with practice.

Through continued dialogue and mentorship, countries reflected on innovative approaches and identified pathways to enhance teaching and learning for more resilient and future-ready learners.