Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for the Western Pacific, will visit New Zealand and attend a seminar at the University of Auckland on Wednesday, July 17, at the Fale Pasifika.
Dr. Piukala, the first Tongan and Pacific person appointed to this role, will discuss his vision for the region. Associate Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga expressed the university’s excitement, saying, “It is indeed a great honour for the University to host the Regional Director, especially given his brief visit.”
Dr. Piukala, a Tongan surgeon and former Minister of Health, has championed initiatives on chronic diseases, safe surgery, and disaster response.
During his visit, Dr. Piukala will meet with governments and stakeholders to address critical health issues and explore collaboration opportunities.
