Samoa is proudly hosting the Regional Radiocommunication Seminar 2024 of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for the Asia-Pacific region, in collaboration with the Asia Pacific Telecommunity (APT) and the Pacific Island Telecommunication Association (PITA). 

Taking place at the Taumeasina Island Resort, the seminar commenced on September 16 and will conclude on Saturday.

This seminar underscores the critical importance of effective spectrum management for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which face unique challenges as nations surrounded by expansive oceans. 

In particular, Pacific Island countries are highly vulnerable to climate change, making reliable satellite services essential for emergency communications during natural disasters. 

Ensuring equitable access to radio spectrum resources is vital for the region and the global community.

Participants in the seminar include representatives from I.T.U. member states, regulators, government officials, engineers, academics, and technical experts, alongside international and local ICT partners. 

The Office of the Regulator emphasised that this seminar offers a valuable opportunity for attendees to enhance their expertise and technical knowledge on various key topics. 

Attendees will also engage in hands-on training with spectrum analysis tools led by experts in spectrum management and allocation.

Throughout the week, an exhibition will facilitate networking and business exchanges among international and local I.C.T. companies, experts, and participants. 

The first sessions of the seminar covered international spectrum management concepts and the procedures for recording frequency assignments in the Master International Frequency Register (M.I.F.R.). 

The seminar will also include a review of the main outcomes from the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-23) and the Radiocommunication Assembly 2023 (RA-23), along with a preview of the agenda for WRC-27.

Participants will also explore the current regulatory framework for international frequency management and ITU-R recommendations regarding spectrum use for both terrestrial and space services. 

Basic training on ICT tools developed by the ITU for frequency notifications will also be provided, preparing attendees for technical examinations.

In the seminar's second segment, hands-on workshops will focus on using these tools for terrestrial and space stations. 

These workshops will offer participants practical experience with ITU notification procedures, alongside access to the software and electronic publications made available by the Radiocommunication Bureau to member states and ITU-R sector members.

As Samoa welcomes experts and stakeholders from across the region, the seminar stands as a pivotal event aimed at strengthening communication infrastructure and fostering resilience among Pacific Island nations.