The Pacific Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOP) Network is gaining momentum since its launch in 2021, with young Pacific Islanders increasingly benefiting from the opportunities it provides.
The Pacific Community Centre for Ocean Science (PCCOS), a hub within the Pacific Community (SPC), created the network to mobilise and connect early-career ocean professionals working across diverse sectors in the region.
One of the beneficiaries is Solomon Islander Jason Surii, who joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade’s Ocean Desk through the ECOP internship program.
Surii, who began in 2023, said the six-month placement gave him valuable exposure to government operations.
“During the internship I was introduced to the structure and daily operations of the Ocean Desk. I attended meetings, contributed to technical work, and participated in national projects,” he told the side event at Heritage Park Hotel on Wednesday.
Following his internship, Surii was offered a one-year contract with the ministry, where he helped draft briefs, prepare documents, and coordinate meetings. He also worked on maritime boundary issues, technical and legal processes, and supported coordination of the Ocean 12 group.
“I’m grateful to SPC for creating ECOP, which has allowed young graduates like me to contribute to the ocean sector,” he said.
SPC’s Miriama Vuiyasawa said the Pacific ECOP Network currently has 240 members, with 39 students placed so far — including 29 women and 10 men.
A key figure behind the initiative is Dr Katy Soapi of Solomon Islands, Coordinator for the Pacific Community Centre for Ocean Science based in Fiji. Dr Soapi, originally from Rendova, previously lectured at the University of the South Pacific and managed the Pacific Natural Products Research Centre.
The program has received strong backing from the New Zealand Government.
The Pacific ECOP Network aims to:
- build knowledge-sharing and peer learning opportunities between ECOPs and senior experts,
- improve access to internships and consultancy opportunities,
- enable young professionals to contribute to ocean solutions and the Ocean Decade agenda,
- recognise ECOP contributions to ocean science, and
- strengthen leadership and capacity-building for Pacific ECOPs.
Fellows are typically hired for three to 12 months, funded by PCCOS and co-managed with national focal points. These placements are open to nationals across all 22 Pacific Island Countries and Territories that are members of SPC.
