October 1, 2025 (Honolulu, Hawaiʻi) – We are proud to announce that PIHOA’s Strengthening Health Interventions in the Pacific (SHIP) Program, has officially been accredited by the Training Programs in Epidemiology and Public Health Interventions Network (TEPHINET) as part of its 2025 accreditation cycle.
This recognition is a historic milestone for the U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands (USAPIs) and for PIHOA. TEPHINET accreditation is an internationally recognized mark of excellence for Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs), validating the quality and impact of SHIP’s curriculum, training, and graduates.
Why This Matters for the Pacific
Global Recognition: SHIP is now part of a worldwide network of accredited FETPs, opening opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Expanded Opportunities for Graduates: SHIP alumni can participate in international outbreak response efforts, including through the WHO Global Outbreak and Response Network (GOARN).
Strengthened Workforce: Accreditation underscores nearly a decade of investment in developing Pacific epidemiologists who are equipped to detect, respond to, and protect communities from health threats.
A Regional Achievement
This milestone was made possible through the dedication of the SHIP team, faculty, partners, and alumni, who have worked tirelessly to grow the program since its first cohort launched in 2015. From COVID-19 to arboviral outbreaks, SHIP graduates have consistently played a critical role in protecting the health of Pacific island communities.
PIHOA extends its gratitude to all who have supported SHIP over the years. This accomplishment affirms our shared vision: a strong, skilled, and resilient Pacific public health workforce.
Read the official announcement from TEPHINET here: TEPHINET Announces the Results of the 2025 Cycle of Accreditation of FETPs