A change at the helm of the Aquaculture Section
Monday, 22 November 2010 10:44

SPC bids farewell to Mr Ben Ponia, who was the Aquaculture Adviser for almost nine years and with the support of his staff, put aquaculture back on the map in the Pacific in a positive light. Ben was also able to compile the most accurate statistics on aquaculture production for the Pacific over the period 1998–2007 (Ponia 2010). Ben left SPC to take up the position of Secretary of Marine Resources in the Cook Islands. All staff in the Coastal Fisheries Programme wish Ben well for the future in his new role, and all look forward to working with him and his staff in the future.

 

Ben’s replacement, Mr Robert Jimmy from Vanuatu, is no stranger to many fisheries people in the Pacific. Robert was the Director of Fisheries in Vanuatu for three years, and prior to this was the Head of the Coastal Science and Aquaculture Section. Robert has a Masters degree in Aquaculture and Fisheries as well as years of experience working in the aquaculture field. The Coastal Fisheries programme staff welcome Robert on board and look forward to working with him as he continues to take aquaculture in the Pacific forward.