Page 24 - IBs November 2022

Finding ways to enhance the quality of

economic data for the Pacific Islands

Professor Saten Kumar, of Fiji-
an-Indian descent, grew up in the
village of Natadola in the prov-
ince of Sigatoka, before moving
to Nadi to attend high school.
After graduating with a Bach-
elor of Education (Economics),
a Postgraduate Diploma in Eco-
nomics, and a Master of Com-
merce from the University of
South Pacific, he came to New
Zealand in 2008 to complete a
PhD in economics at AUT.
A decade and a half later, Saten
still proudly calls AUT home and
over the years, his academic ca-
reer has progressed quickly. He
started working as a lecturer in
2010, was promoted to associate
professor in 2015 and became a
full professor in 2021.
Since 2019, he has been the
head of school for AUT’s School
of Economics, and enjoys shar-
ing his passion for economics
with his staff and students.

Giving back to the community
As a researcher, Saten is inter-
ested in finding ways to enhance
the quality of economic data for
Pacific Islands.
“I like giving back to the com-
munity through my research,” he
says.
His research focuses on how
individuals form their beliefs and
has been used to inform policy-
making in New Zealand and the Professor Saten Kumar, head of school for AUT’s School of Economics.
Pacific Islands.
Saten’s earlier research explored monetary policies of He believes his ability to connect and help students
the Pacific Islands, particularly the Pacific Islands’ eco- comes from his understanding of being part of a collec-
nomic policy-making and central banks, with a focus on tive; something he attributes to his Pacific upbringing.
how central banks should be using and stabilising infla- His goal is to see more Pacific students joining AUT and
tion for more growth in the economy. progressing to postgraduate study, including a PhD.
“We have too few PhDs from the Pacific Islands, and
Connecting with students it is important to encourage our Pacific people to target
Saten says he loves being connected with students and higher education studies.”
really wants them to make positive changes to our society.

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24 Islands Business, November 2022