NUV Seminar on Ocean Micobiome and Bougainville Mission next week

The National University of Vanuatu (NUV) encourages people to attend its next public seminar titled “Reveal the Invisible, Protect the Ocean” to be held on Monday at the NUV Auditorium from 4:45pm to 6:30pm.

The 30-minute presentation will be delivered in French by Rose Chanfreau, a student at Sorbonne University and Volunteer Biodiversity Officer Cadet. The seminar will be followed by a question-andanswer session, and attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with Rose over kava and light refreshments.

This free event is open to everyone – NUV students, staff and lecturers, as well as members of the general public, school students and ocean enthusiasts.

Rose will present the Bougainville Mission, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the ocean microbiome in the Indo-Pacific region. The ocean microbiome refers to the vast community of microscopic organisms – including bacteria, plankton, and viruses – that form the foundation of marine ecosystems. Although invisible to the naked eye, these microorganisms play a critical role in regulating the Earth’s climate, producing oxygen, cycling nutrients, and sustaining marine food webs.

The Bougainville Mission seeks to make this “invisible world” visible by combining science, education, and community outreach. Through field observations, research engagement, and public awareness activities, the mission highlights the importance of protecting marine biodiversity at its most fundamental level.

As a Volunteer Biodiversity Officer Cadet, Rose is committed to science communication and encouraging environmental care. Her work focuses on translating complex scientific knowledge about marine ecosystems into accessible messages that inspire action. By engaging communities – particularly young people – she promotes greater understanding of how ocean health directly impacts Pacific island nations and the wider Indo-Pacific region.

NUV is proud to host this seminar to foster environmental education, scientific dialogue, and regional collaboration. As a university serving the people of Vanuatu, NUV recognises the central role that ocean health plays in the nation’s culture, livelihoods, and sustainable development. The University warmly invites all interested participants to attend this unique seminar.

NUV remains committed to providing quality, inclusive and relevant higher education for Vanuatu and the wider region. NUV’s development is aligned with the Vanuatu People’s Plan and the Vanuatu.

Education and Training Sector Strategic Plan. The education and training programs under NUV are based on the priorities of the country’s National Human Resource Development Plan 2020-2030 (NHRDP).