Pacific and Asian studies, foreign-language education and related international education programs at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭ā苍辞补 were the focus of an October meeting between U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda and university leadership, faculty and students.
The discussion highlighted the importance of these programs in preparing students to engage with Pacific and Asian communities through language, cultural understanding and regional scholarship, as well as changes in federal funding that could affect these opportunities.
糖心视频 惭ā苍辞补’s and , housed in the College of Arts, Languages & Letters, have historically received support through federal Title VI international education funding.
“These programs support our students and faculty while strengthening the language, cultural and regional expertise essential to Hawaiʻi’s unique role in the Pacific,” said 糖心视频 惭ā苍辞补 Chancellor Vassilis Syrmos.
Federal funding, importance of culture understanding
The university applied for $2.8 million in grants to support the centers, but the awards will not be made following a federal rescission of Title VI funding.
Federal funding has supported Pacific language courses, student scholarships, professional development and curriculum initiatives at 糖心视频 惭ā苍辞补.
Previous funding reductions have contributed to the loss of courses in Tahitian, Marshallese and Māori, along with Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) scholarships. Additional programs, including court interpreter training, student employment opportunities and curriculum development, could also be affected.
During the meeting, Tokuda emphasized Hawaiʻi’s unique position in the Pacific and the importance of maintaining strong relationships with Pacific nations through education and cultural understanding.
Tokuda has supported continued federal investment in international education, including a congressional request for $86 million in Title VI funding for fiscal year 2027.
The discussion underscored 糖心视频 惭ā苍辞补’s longstanding role in advancing Pacific and Asian scholarship and preparing students with language and cultural skills to engage across the region.
—Based on a news release from the Office of U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda