Research centre forges closer ties with Kiribati to tackle health issues

An initiative led by a new University research centre will see close collaboration on the goal of better health outcomes for the people of Kiribati.

Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, the Centre for Pacific and Global Health, hosted at the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, has led work to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University and the Government of Kiribati through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.

The signatories were Hon Dr Tinte Itinteang, the Minister for Health and Medical Services on behalf of Kiribati and the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Professor Warwick Bagg on behalf of the University.

Associate Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga, one of the directors of the research centre said, “The MoU is a significant development for the University. Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa in establishing meaningful relationships with regional partners. It provides the connection point to share expertise from the University to assist Kiribati Ministry of Health and clinical staff with training and ongoing support.”

Dr Revite Kirition, the Director General of Health for Kiribati, said, “Kiribati looks forward to working with Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa in a Pacific way to come up with solutions that work best with our communities.”

The MoU creates the framework for researchers and Kiribati health officials to identify research questions and attract joint research funding to tackle persistent health challenges in Kiribati and the region. It lists a number of further initiatives, including access to library and research resources for the Ministry, support for I-Kiribati students to study health sciences and advanced training for Ministry staff.

“Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa seeks to build capacity in line with delivering high-quality research projects that have positive impacts on communities in our region, bolstering Pacific research leadership at a global level," said Sir Collin. 

"The University of Auckland has expertise across a range of disciplines including nutrition, primary care and digital health which are ongoing challenges for Kiribati and many other Pacific countries.”

Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa is one of seven transdisciplinary centres established to focus research that responds the response to major challenges faced by Aotearoa New Zealand and the globe.