NES is proud to celebrate Terena Koteka-Wiki, Project Officer under the GEF-7 ENUA Project, who has successfully completed a Post-Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management and Sustainability.
Completed part-time over two-years, the programme reflects Terena’s strong commitment to learning while continuing to deliver important national environmental initiatives. The qualification focused on practical, real-world approaches to environmental management, including environmental governance, sustainable resource use, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation.
The knowledge and skills gained through this programme will directly support the objectives of the GEF-7 ENUA Project and NES’s wider work. These include improved programme planning, monitoring and reporting, stronger collaboration across agencies, and better support for community and Pa Enua-led initiatives.
Terena shared that while gaining another qualification is an important achievement, the experience has given her something even more meaningful – a deeper appreciation for the environment and a stronger sense of responsibility.
“This programme didn’t just add another qualification; it strengthened my appreciation for our environment and reinforced that we need to do better as a nation. It is our responsibility to take care of our ipukarea and our land for future generations. I love being outdoors because it allows me to connect with nature, learn, be with my people, and be present – away from screens and closer to what truly matters.”
This perspective continues to shape Terena’s work at NES, reinforcing the importance of managing land and marine environments in ways that protect biodiversity while respecting social and cultural values.
Terena is grateful for the opportunity to undertake this qualification, delivered through the University of Newcastle (UON) in Australia, with most students coming from Australia alongside a small number of international students. The Cook Islands cohort consisted of four participants, whose experiences as a Small Islands Developing State brought a unique and valuable perspective to class discussions and presentations.
While this marks an important milestone, Terena sees it as part of a longer learning journey. She plans to pursue a Master’s degree in the future, but is currently focused on applying her skills, strengthening her professional development at NES, and progressing personal goals alongside her career.
