In early October, Soil Science Australia held a “Fundamentals of Soil” short course in Suva, Fiji, hosted by Fiji National University.
The course, led by Dr. Chris Guppy and Dr. Ivanah Oliver from the University of New England, addressed key soil analysis skill gaps in the Pacific region. Participants hailed from Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu, Samoa, and Kiribati, and the tailored course content focused on the specific soil types and crops of the Pacific. The initiative was made possible through collaborations with the University of New England, Fiji National University and the Pacific Community (SPC). The project is funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR).
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the value of regional collaboration. This course marks a significant step in building stronger soil analysis capacity across the Pacific.
Looking ahead, soil professionals from the South Pacific will gather again prior to the New Zealand Soil Conference. Soil Science Australia will be organising additional workshops and training sessions for students, academics, and laboratory technicians.
Expect to see fascinating talks and posters from our Pacific neighbours at the upcoming joint SSA / NZSSS conference.