Kolonia, Pohnpei— On September 22, 2025, the Pohnpei State Government made history by convening the first-ever Health Symposium at the Governor’s Conference Room—an unprecedented event for both Pohnpei and the Federated States of Micronesia.
The Health Symposium was designed to bring together state leaders, policy makers, healthcare professionals, and international partners to align health policies and best practices with the national government and regional stakeholders. This collaborative effort aims to address pressing health challenges, including non-communicable diseases (NCDs), health infrastructure, and access to care.
Master of Ceremonies Mr. PJ Etnol coordinated the opening ceremony, which began with a solemn word of prayer from Reverend Nickontro Johnny.
Director of Health, Mr. Stuard Penias, delivered the official welcoming remarks and acknowledged the presence of Governor Stevenson A. Joseph, First Lady Dr. Aina Garstang, Lt. Governor Movick, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the FSM, H.E. Wu Wei, U.S. Ambassador to the FSM, H.E. Jennifer Johnson, Australian Ambassador to the FSM, H.E. Jenny Grant, Keynote Speaker and Secretary of the FSM Department of Health and Social Affairs, Mr. Marcus Samo, and Guest Speaker Dr. Ofrin Roderico, WHO Northern Micronesia Representative, and UN, UNDP, UNICEF and UNFPA representatives.
Governor Stevenson A. Joseph delivered remarks officially opening the first Pohnpei State Health Symposium, noting the need to align policies with our partners for clarity and empowerment, to prevent sickness and provide the best care. Focusing on the urgency of addressing NCDs, in his remarks, Governor Joseph stated:
“I think we need bolder and more aggressive policies across all sectors, not just health, to curb NCD. We need to acknowledge that NCD is an existential and imminent threat to our children. The beautiful thing about this threat, unlike some other much talked about threat, is that we can actually do something about it even at our level and with the resources we already have. We need not to pander or appeal or even rely on bigger and wealthier countries to make a difference. We can make a difference now. We have control. All we need, aside from the resources, is the WILL and the COMMITMENT.”
Guest Speaker Dr. Ofrin Roderico of WHO Northern Micronesia delivered remarks, noting:
“This is not only my first day in Pohnpei, but also the first event I have the honor of attending in the Federated States of Micronesia—and I could not have asked for a more meaningful beginning.”
He emphasized WHO’s ongoing and future commitment to supporting Pohnpei’s health initiatives, stating:
“WHO is here to support your efforts to build resilient, inclusive, and people-centered health systems—systems that honor local realities while embracing global standards.”
Keynote Speaker Secretary Marcus Samo highlighted the significant progress made in healthcare since the FSM became a nation, noting improvements across nearly all areas. He extended his congratulations and support to Director Penias and Governor Joseph for the successful symposium, reaffirming their continued collaboration in advancing health and well-being for the people of Pohnpei and the FSM.
The first day of the symposium concluded with a dinner reception at the Governor’s Office compound, providing an opportunity for participants to network and continue discussions in an informal setting.
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