Our findings
Pilot Study
This research builds on a 2022 pilot study that examined how the Fijian health sector responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pilot revealed that the health system’s existing challenges, such as under-resourcing, worsened during the pandemic, leading to increased stress and burnout among health workers. However, the system was able to function, to some extent, due to the adaptive leadership and the collective efforts of people within the system, supported by cultural values such as solesolevaki. The study highlights the importance of examining decision-making during the pandemic as a crucial first step in strengthening the health system’s resilience. This is vital for preparing the system to better handle future crises, including health threats, climate change, political instability, and natural disasters, while addressing ongoing health challenges like non-communicable diseases and maternal and child health issues.
Our Case studies
As part of our broader research project, our team will also be carrying out a number of case studies within the Fijian health context.
Community experiences of the cOVID-19 pandemic
Associate Investigator Dr Akisi Ravono is leading a case study among iTaukei communities in Fiji. The aim of this research is to understand the experiences of community members during the COVID-19 pandemic, through the conversational talanoa method, veitalanoa. During February 2025, we visited two villages on Viti Levu – one near Rakiraki and another near Suva – where participants reflected on their challenges and coping mechanisms during the pandemic. Using a participatory approach, community members were divided into small groups to create visual posters and brief presentations about their experiences. More community data collection visits are planned for later in 2025.
The Role of Undergraduate Public Health Graduates in Strengthening System Resilience and Emergency Response in Fiji
Avendra Prakash’s PhD research examines how undergraduate public health graduates can be more strategically integrated to strengthen health system resilience in Fiji. Using a mixed methods design comprising three sequential phases, Avendra’s research foregroundsundergraduate public health graduates within debates on leadership and workforce reform, and addresses a critical but under-examined dimension of health system resilience. The study is expected to inform workforce policy, leadership development, and curriculum alignment in Fiji, with broader relevance for other SIDS seeking to strengthen prevention, preparedness, end community centred health systems.
Exploring the Adaptive Responses of Fijian Nurses During and After COVID-19
This case study, led by Postdoctoral Research Fellow Dr Johanna Thomas-Maude, aims to explore how the experiences of nurses (Registered Nurses, midwives, and Nurse Practitioners) who worked continuously before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic in Fiji could contribute to building resilience within the Fijian health system. This project looks at the impacts of COVID-19 on retention, the aspects of the current system that experienced nurses feel work well or do not work well for them, and how they could envision an ideal future for the nursing profession of Fiji. During February 2025, group talanoa sessions were held with nurses in Suva, Labasa, and Lautoka to learn about their experiences.
The role of the Great Council of Chiefs in breaking the culture of silence and stigma surrounding HIV among iTaukei in Fiji.
Patrick Tamaicakai’s Master’s research explores how traditional iTaukei leadership can help address the stigma and silence surrounding HIV in Fiji. Using culturally grounded research approaches Patrick conducted talanoa sessions with chiefs, their representatives, and key stakeholders to examine the role of the Great Council of Chiefs in HIV prevention and community engagement. His findings suggest that while cultural and social barriers can contribute to silence around HIV, traditional leaders are uniquely positioned to influence attitudes, encourage testing, and promote open discussion within communities. The research highlights the importance of integrating public health initiatives with traditional governance structures, arguing that culturally informed leadership is essential for strengthening Fiji’s response to HIV and improving health outcomes for iTaukei communities.
Exploring Fijian Health System Resilience 