Getting Connected in the South Pacific

News | October 26, 2018

(Sacramento) — The Office of International Affiliations welcomed an international exchange delegation from the South Pacific in October 2018 to discuss digital connectivity. Seven representatives and two liaisons arrived representing the island nations of New Zealand, Niue, the Cook Islands and Samoa. The group was invited to the United States under the auspices of the United States Department of State — commonly referred to as the State Department — to examine how increased internet connectivity can positively impact communities  — especially rural, island communities. 

Investing in Wireless Infrastructure

Delegates focused on learning more about getting connected, and the importance of investing in broadband/wireless infrastructure. One island nation is already building a subsea pipeline linking it to a critical technology center in New Zealand, ensuring that internet access is not interrupted.

The remote locations of neighboring islands and a lack of infrastructure make it difficult to bring the South Pacific “on line.”  By adopting and investing in this infrastructure, which digital technology requires, the island nations can ensure people in remote areas of the South Pacific get consistent service and remain competitive. The ultimate goal of supporting this infrastructure is to help improve people’s health and well-being through positive medical outcomes.   

Having a Positive Impact

The delegation reported that their session with UC Davis Health was the highlight of their three-week program. The dialogue sparked interest from both sides in developing a partnership to best collaborate on how to promote, plan and implement widespread digital connectivity. 

As the various islands report back on their findings, and how to best move forward, UC Davis Health can provide success stories. This can help validate the wireless investment island representatives are asking their governments to make.

Since the meeting in October 2018, faculty from UC Davis Health have been invited to speak at an outbound program to the South Pacific.