Fiji’s Dr Sivendra Michael has become the country’s newly-appointed Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change.
Dr Michael has spent the last 10 years working in the climate change adaptation (CCA) and disaster risk management (DRM) field across the Asia-Pacific and Eastern African region. He is currently deployed by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to support the Tongan Ministry responsible for Climate Change and Disaster Management, similar to a role he had undertaken with Fiji’s Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development in 2021.
Prior to joining the UNDP, Dr Michael worked for various agencies, including British Council, UN International Labor Organisation, University of Auckland and University of the South Pacific to name a few. His early careers were dedicated to the Strategic Policy and Planning Division of the Pacific Islands Forum.
Dr Michael has developed a robust understanding of the Climate Change and Environment portfolios. His strong record of leadership is testament of the multiple regional and international awards in recognition of his work.
Dr Michael holds a PhD and Master’s Degree from the University of Auckland, as well as a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree from the University of the South Pacific. He is well known in the region through his work in the field, particularly by Development Partners and has been a key member of the Fiji Delegation at UNFCCC COP meetings.
Fiji’s Public Service Commission Chair, Luke Rokovada, extends his congratulations to Dr Michael and acknowledges that his leadership will be vital to drive Fiji’s environmental and climate change priorities.
Dr Michael is expected to start his role on 29 January 2024.