
Great potential was demonstrated by a biopsy needle in reducing the risk of dangerous brain bleeds in patients undergoing brain biopsy as it has undergone initial tests on humans.
According to a recent report, the ‘imaging needle’ can help surgeons identify and avoid blood vessels in the brain during surgery.
A team of researchers and clinicians, led by the University of Adelaide, describe how the tiny imaging needle can detect blood vessels with a very high degree of accuracy, 91.2% sensitivity and 97.7% specificity.
Published in the journal Science Advances, the researchers describe how they produced the imaging device with a tiny fibre-optic camera encased within a brain biopsy needle.
Led by researchers from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics and the University of Adelaide’s Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, the project is a collaboration with Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital.
The project originated out of work undertaken at the University of Western Australia.
Brain biopsies are a common procedure carried out to diagnose brain tumour and other diseases. It is a minimally invasive operation, but still carries the risk of damage to blood vessels that is potentially fatal.
The imaging needle allows the surgeons ‘see’ at-risk blood vessels as they insert the needle, allowing them to avoid causing bleeds.
The fibre-optic camera, having the size of a human hair, shines infrared light onto the brain tissue. The computer system behind the needle will then identify the blood vessel and alerts the surgeon.
An initial validation with 11 patients at Sir Gairdner Hospital in Western Australia has been done by the imaging needle.
The patients were undergoing other types of neurosurgery and consented to allow the team to safely test how well the imaging needle was able to detect blood vessels during surgery.
This is the first reported use of such a probe in the human brain during live surgery. Moreover, it is the first step in the long process required to bring new tools like this into clinical practice.
Bleeds are a risk in many types of neurosurgery and there is a great opportunity for new technologies like this to help reduce those risks.
To have a tool that can see blood vessels, as one proceeds through the brain, would open up new vistas of things that can be done with neurosurgery.
These things are usually those that people do not currently trust their own hands to do.
The Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS) has been created to bring together experimental physicists, chemists, material scientists, biologists, experimentally driven theoretical scientists and medical researchers to create new sensing and measurement technologies.
In a strategic move toward addressing the increasing challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) on copyright issues, the Australian government is launching a dedicated copyright and AI reference group. This initiative aims to proactively anticipate and navigate the intricate web of copyright concerns brought about by the proliferation of AI technology.
AI’s pervasive influence sparks critical copyright quandaries, encompassing aspects like the data used to train AI models, transparency in AI’s inputs and outputs, the emergence of imitative works through AI, and the nuanced debate surrounding copyright protection for AI-generated creations.
This reference group, conceived as a continuous forum, will foster ongoing dialogues and collaborations with stakeholders from diverse sectors including the creative, media, and technology domains. Its core objective is to methodically deliberate on these complex issues in a consultative manner, ensuring a holistic approach to address AI’s impact on copyright.
Australia’s proactive engagement with a wide spectrum of stakeholders underscores the nation’s commitment to leveraging AI advancements while safeguarding the vibrancy of the creative sector. This collaborative effort is poised to unlock the potential of AI while upholding the vitality and creativity of Australia’s diverse industries.
Aligned with broader government initiatives on AI, spearheaded by Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic, this reference group stands as a pivotal addition in the quest for the safe and responsible utilisation of AI.
The inception of this group stems from a series of copyright-focused roundtables initiated earlier in the year. These forums, culminating in a final gathering, facilitated crucial discussions, aggregating insights from over 50 peak bodies and organisations on pressing copyright reform issues. The establishment of the AI-centric reference group signifies a natural progression in these conversations, channelling sustained deliberations on AI’s copyright implications.
For those invested in these developments, comprehensive details about the reference group and key outcomes from the fourth copyright roundtable will soon be accessible on the Attorney-General’s Department’s website. This forthcoming information will provide a deeper understanding of Australia’s proactive stance in navigating the intricate intersection of AI and copyright in the digital era.
Australia is rapidly embracing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), leveraging its capabilities across diverse sectors to drive innovation both domestically and on the global stage.
The country has strategically integrated AI into various sectors, including healthcare, finance, agriculture, and education. Initiatives such as AI-driven healthcare diagnostics, predictive analytics in agriculture, and personalised learning systems in education exemplify the nation’s commitment to harnessing AI’s power for societal progress.
The Western Australian government has unveiled a comprehensive set of measures aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles, alleviating work burdens, and fostering a conducive environment for educators to focus on teaching. The region’s Education Minister, Dr Tony Buti, spearheading this initiative, took into account the insights from two pivotal reports and explored the potential of AI tools to revamp policies and processes.
OpenGov Asia reported on the study Responsible AI: Best Practices for Creating Trustworthy AI Systems. This study delves into risks, ethical considerations and the imperative for responsible practices, highlighting the challenges, principles, and paths forward in leveraging AI for positive impact while mitigating potential harm.
Internationally, via the Aus4Innovation programme, collaborative efforts between Australia and Vietnam in AI are pushing boundaries from disaster response simulations to AI-enhanced agriculture and environmental management.
Each year, approximately 240,000 instances of breast cancer are identified among women and 2,100 among men in the United States. The toll of this disease is reflected in the fact that each year, around 42,000 women and 500 men succumb to breast cancer in the U.S.
Cancer is characterised by uncontrolled cell growth within the body. Among women in the United States, breast cancer ranks as the most prevalent form of cancer, excluding skin cancer. While there has been a decrease in mortality rates associated with breast cancer over the years, it still maintains its position as the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths among women at large.
It is disconcerting to note that black women experience a higher mortality rate from breast cancer. The gravity of these statistics underscores the pressing need for continued research, awareness, and advancements in healthcare to address the impact of breast cancer across diverse populations.
In light of this, researchers from Penn State have unravelled the mechanics behind the invasion of healthy tissues by breast cancer cells, shedding light on a crucial aspect of cancer metastasis. The U.S. National Science Foundation supports this discovery, unveiling the pivotal role of a motor protein called dynein in propelling the movement of cancer cells within soft tissue models. The findings present potential clinical targets against metastasis and can revolutionise the approach to cancer treatment.
The study signifies a paradigm shift in understanding the mechanics of cancer cell motility. Erdem Tabdanov, a pharmacologist at Penn State and a lead co-corresponding author on the study, emphasised the discovery significance of this innovation, “Until now, dynein has never been caught in the business of providing the mechanical force for cancer cell motility, which is their ability to move. Now we can see that if you target dynein, you could effectively stop motility of those cells and, therefore, stop metastatic dissemination,” he expressed.
During this work, the researchers utilised live microscopy to observe the migration of breast cancer cells in two distinct systems designed to replicate human body conditions. The first system, a 2D network of collagen fibres, revealed the intricate movement of cancer cells through an extracellular matrix surrounding tumours, highlighting the critical role of dynein.
The second system, a 3D model developed by a team led by Amir Sheikhi, a chemical and biomedical engineer at Penn State, aimed to mimic soft tissue using microscopic hydrogel particles or microgels linked together in tumour-like shapes. In both models, the researchers found that dynein was “indispensable” in the spread or metastasis of cancer cells.
Sheikhi emphasised the impact of this discovery on cancer management, stating, “Using these three-dimensional models that partially mimic a tumour, we discovered that if we block dynein, the cancer cells cannot effectively move and infiltrate solid tissues. Instead of killing the cancer cells with radiation or chemotherapy, we are showing how to paralyse them.”
This breakthrough is particularly noteworthy as it introduces a less aggressive approach to cancer treatment, aiming to halt the movement of cancer cells rather than indiscriminately targeting both cancerous and healthy cells. By leveraging digital microscopy and innovative 3D models, the research offers a transformative perspective on cancer management.
The potential clinical implications of this discovery are vast, providing a new avenue for developing targeted therapies against metastasis. In the era of precision medicine, where tailored treatments are gaining prominence, understanding the mechanics of cancer cell motility at a molecular level opens doors to more nuanced and effective interventions.
As the research community embraces digital technologies and advanced modelling techniques, this study stands as a testament to the power of innovation in unravelling the complexities of cancer biology. Integrating digital microscopy into the study of cancer dynamics showcases how technology can drive the future of medical research and treatment.
Further, the implications of this research extend beyond breast cancer, offering a blueprint for exploring similar mechanisms in other types of cancer and paving the way for a more targeted and less invasive approach to cancer therapeutics.
The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) is spearheading an initiative to propel the nation’s capabilities in healthcare, Industry 4.0-driven manufacturing, and supply chain and logistics through the transformative power of 5G. This groundbreaking endeavour, known as the S$30 million 5G Innovation Programme, is not just a step forward but a giant leap into a future where innovation reshapes industries.
Launched in 2021, the 5G Innovation Programme is a testament to Singapore’s commitment to embracing emerging technologies. IMDA has forged strategic partnerships with key enterprises, including the National University Health System (NUHS).
In the healthcare industry, Singapore’s forward-thinking tech innovators, in collaboration with NUHS, have harnessed 5G to revolutionise patient care. The introduction of Mixed Reality-based Holomedicine in operating theatres stands out as a groundbreaking achievement.
This innovative approach not only enhances patient care but also redefines the entire healthcare experience. Announced in 2022, the initiative marks the Asia Pacific’s inaugural deployment of indoor private Enterprise 5G mobile edge computing (MEC) for Mixed Reality and Holomedicine capabilities in health tech.
A significant stride in healthcare also involves a collaboration with Republic Power to deploy 5G-enabled unmanned medical booths. These “Medbots” represent Asia’s first 5G-enabled unmanned pre-screening and teleconsultation medical booths. Equipped with state-of-the-art hygiene and safety systems, these booths support remote health screening and video consultations, offering an enhanced user experience that aligns with the demands of a digital era.
The impact of 5G extends beyond healthcare, permeating the realms of Industry 4.0-driven manufacturing, supply chain, and logistics. Collaborations with ST Engineering and DB Schenker have given rise to groundbreaking applications.
For instance, Singapore’s first 5G-enabled Digital Twin has been implemented for a logistics and supply chain company transforming warehouse and manufacturing operations, quality control, and customer experience. Simultaneously, ST Engineering’s 5G-Enabled Industry 4.0 Smart Factory boasts one of Singapore’s first 5G-enabled collaborative robots, revolutionising manufacturing processes.
Dr Ong Chen Hui, Assistant Chief Executive of the Biztech Group at IMDA, emphasised the agency’s commitment to architecting Singapore’s digital future. The goal is to build capabilities in various sectors powered by emerging technologies like 5G. IMDA’s collaboration with forward-looking companies signifies a concerted effort to unlock the full spectrum of benefits that 5G offers across a wide range of sectors.
As Singapore propels itself into the future, the 5G Innovation Programme stands as a testament to the nation’s dedication to progress. The partnerships with key enterprises underscore a collective effort to reshape, redefine, and transform industries across the country.
Singapore is not merely embracing change; it is pioneering a future where technology catalyses innovation and progress. The journey has just begun, and Singapore is at the forefront, shaping the narrative of a technologically advanced and future-ready nation.
The comprehensive initiative serves as a catalyst, propelling Singapore into a new era of digital prowess. It is not merely an adoption of advanced technologies; rather, it is a strategic alignment with the needs of the future, recognising the pivotal role technology plays in shaping economic landscapes on a global scale.
The 5G Innovation Programme signifies Singapore’s commitment to sustainable economic growth. By embracing technology as a driver of progress, Singapore is not just securing its current standing; it is laying the foundation for a resilient and forward-thinking economy. The emphasis on sustainability in this digital transformation ensures that growth is not just rapid but also enduring, with an eye towards environmental and social responsibility.
Based on a study conducted in 2018, the Head of the Satellite Division of the Accessibility to Communication and Information Agency (BAKTI) of the Ministry of Communication and Information, Sri Sanggrama Aradea, stated that based, there is a need for internet access to 1Mbps for 150,000 public service points in the fields of education, healthcare, and government in remote, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas.
The Ministry of Communication and Information continues to uphold its commitment to implementing the agenda of equalising the progress of digital transformation across the entire archipelago of Indonesia. This commitment is realised by continuing the contract for Base Transceiver Station (BTS) 4G services, especially for Remote, Frontier, and Outermost (3T) regions.

This action signifies the seriousness of the Ministry in ensuring that the benefits of digital transformation progress are not only felt in major cities but also extend to remote and outermost areas of Indonesia. Continuing the BTS 4G contract for 3T focuses on equalising access and strengthening communication networks, ensuring that communities in previously connectivity-limited areas can enjoy the benefits of the digital revolution.
Minister of Communication and Information Budi Arie Setiadi emphasised, “Strengthening communication networks is the main focus, ensuring that communities in areas that may have been previously limited in connectivity can benefit from the digital revolution.”
Minister Budi Arie Setiadi stated that this aligns with President Joko Widodo’s directive during the handover of the Ministry’s Budget Execution Plan for the Fiscal Year 2024, emphasising that the utilisation of government budget allocations must be focused on results. Minister Budi Arie explained that the signed Operation & Maintenance Contract is intended to continue the operation of the already-built BTS 4G, which has become an asset of the Telecommunication and Information Accessibility Agency (BAKTI).
Arwoto Atmosutarno, Chairman of the Task Force of the BAKTI at the Ministry of Communication and Information, admits that completing the BTS 4G Project is challenging. The diverse topography of Indonesia and its often remote geographical locations create complexities that increase the difficulty in executing this project.
In overcoming these challenges, Atmosutarno highlighted the importance of collaborative and synergistic coordination among Task Force members, involving entities such as the Attorney General’s Office, Ministry of Finance, Supreme Audit Agency (BPKP), Procurement Policy Agency (LKPP), Ministry of Communication and Information, and various related industry stakeholders. This joint effort aims to overcome various obstacles and challenges from complicated geographical conditions.
This indicates that project completion requires technical expertise and active involvement from various sectors contributing to addressing Indonesia’s unique and complex landscapes. Although the task is not easy, the determination and good cooperation among Task Force members ensure the efficiency of the project, even in challenging geographical conditions.
Indonesia is indeed known as an archipelagic country with quite extreme topography. This poses significant challenges for communication networks, especially telecommunication infrastructure projects such as BTS 4G. With widely scattered islands, high mountains, and remote areas that are difficult to access, establishing a network that can cover the entire Indonesian territory requires meticulous planning and execution.
Based on data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the number of internet users in Indonesia reached 292.3 million in 2022, equivalent to 77.02% of the total population. This figure increased by 2.6% from the previous year.
The increase in Internet access is driven by various factors, including economic growth, increased smartphone penetration, and government programmes to equalise Internet access.
Regarding telecommunication infrastructure development, the government aims to achieve 100% 4G network coverage by 2024. This target seems achievable, as in 2023, 4G network coverage in Indonesia has reached 98%.
The progress of telecommunication network development in Indonesia has brought various benefits to the community, including: Improving accessibility to information and communication, Facilitating economic transactions, Enhancing the quality of education and healthcare and Increasing the nation’s competitiveness.
Computer scientists from Iraq and Australia have harnessed the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital imaging to create an innovative diagnostic tool, achieving a remarkable 98% accuracy in detecting facial palsy, while also determining the patient’s gender and age.

The researchers, affiliated with the Middle Technical University (MTU) in Baghdad and the University of South Australia (UniSA), believe that the tool has the potential to significantly reduce diagnostic errors associated with this prevalent and treatable neurological disorder.
Facial palsy, characterised by temporary muscle weakness or paralysis on one side of the face due to impairment of the facial nerve, affects approximately 1 in 60 individuals worldwide during their lifetime. While facial palsy is commonly caused by nerve impairment, less frequent causes include tumors, infections, or strokes. The challenge in diagnosing facial palsy lies in its ability to mimic other conditions, often leading to misdiagnosis. A 2020 paper estimates that misdiagnosis occurs in up to 20% of cases, underscoring the critical need for accurate diagnostic tools.
Published in BioMedInformatics, the researchers detailed their real-time detection system for facial palsy, leveraging a microcomputer, digital camera, and a deep learning algorithm. The team utilised a robust dataset comprising 26,000 images, with 19,000 representing normal facial conditions and 1,600 showcasing facial palsy. Employing advanced AI techniques, the researchers trained computer vision systems to recognise facial palsy, distinguishing it from healthy conditions.
To put their system to the test, the researchers captured images of 20 patients with varying degrees of facial palsy. The algorithm not only detected the condition in real time but also accurately identified the approximate age and gender of the patients. According to Professor Javaan Chahl, a remote sensing engineer at the University of South Australia, the system achieved an impressive 98% accuracy rate.
The significance of this AI-driven diagnostic tool extends beyond its accuracy. By using computer vision systems for facial palsy detection, the researchers believe that the tool has the potential to prevent misdiagnoses, ultimately saving time, effort, and costs for both patients and medical specialists.
Traditional methods of detection through visual examination are prone to inaccuracies due to the subtle presentation of facial palsy, which can be easily mistaken for other conditions. Early and accurate detection is crucial, as facial palsy may be indicative of underlying issues such as stroke, HIV infection, multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, or Lyme disease.
The researchers highlight that individuals most at risk of developing facial palsy are typically aged between 30 and 45, pregnant women, diabetics, and those with a family history of the condition. Moreover, facial palsy tends to affect the left side of the face more frequently, although the condition often resolves spontaneously within six months.
The paper titled “Automatic Facial Palsy, Age and Gender Detection Using a Raspberry Pi” is authored by Ali Al-Naji from MTU and UniSA, Javaan Chahl from UniSA, Ali Saber Amsalan from MTU, and Ammar Yahya Daeef from MTU. This collaborative effort between Iraqi and Australian researchers underscores the global nature of scientific advancements and their potential to transform healthcare practices. As the field of AI continues to evolve, such interdisciplinary collaborations pave the way for innovative solutions that have a tangible impact on patient care and medical diagnostics.
Bridging vast distances through technological innovation, the Aus4Innovation programme stands as a testament to the collaboration between Australia and Vietnam. This partnership is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionise various sectors, ranging from disaster response strategies to agricultural efficiency.

In the realm of disaster response and search and rescue, Aus4Innovation has played a pivotal role in facilitating the testing and scaling of AI technologies by Australian and Vietnamese innovators. One significant outcome of this collaboration is a research initiative between the University of Technology Sydney and Le Quy Don University in Vietnam.
Together, they are leveraging the latest advancements in digital transformation technologies, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and AI simulations, to develop a cutting-edge system for search and rescue training. This innovative approach allows rescue workers to engage in simulation training for diverse scenarios, minimising risks to both expensive equipment and, more importantly, lives. By practising in a safe environment, search and rescue workers can enhance their skills and mitigate potential tragic consequences during actual rescue efforts.
In the agricultural domain, the Aus4Innovation program has fostered a partnership between the University of Wollongong and a Vietnamese tech company. This collaboration has led to the creation of Smart Eye, an AI-driven system designed to monitor and assess the health of sugarcane.
Deployed across more than 25 thousand hectares in the Thanh Hoa province, Smart Eye integrates soil moisture sensors to provide farmers with crucial data on nutritional stress, water stress, and leaf diseases. Delivered through a user-friendly mobile app, this technology empowers farmers to make timely decisions to protect their crops and sustain productivity.
The successful adoption of Smart Eye by the largest buyer of sugarcane in Thanh Hoa, showcases the potential for customising and replicating this technology for other crops in Vietnam, spanning rice, fruits, vegetables, flowers, industrial crops, forestry, and aquaculture.
In the conservation sector, Aus4Innovation has contributed to transforming environmental management at Tram Chim National Park, one of Vietnam’s largest national parks. Challenges such as insufficient and irregular survey data, extreme weather conditions, and vast parklands were addressed by a collaboration between the University of Wollongong and Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology.
Leveraging AI, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT), experts developed specialised tools for monitoring the park. These tools, including drones and monitoring stations, enable efficient data collection and analysis, offering insights into the park’s environment, health, water, soil, air quality, bird population, and early detection of fires. Park rangers and staff have been trained to operate these systems, enhancing their ability to make informed decisions for the park’s ecosystem.
The Aus4Innovation program, funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and co-funded and managed by CSIRO, aligns with Australia’s commitment to supporting and strengthening Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem.
As part of Australia’s AI Month, the program underscores the nation’s dedication to responsible AI creation and adoption. The CSIRO National AI Centre plays a crucial role in advancing Australia’s AI expertise and capabilities, fostering a collaborative and focused AI ecosystem for the benefit of all Australians. Through such initiatives, Australia aims to secure a competitive global edge in artificial intelligence.
The Aus4Innovation program stands at the forefront of transformative technological collaborations between Australia and Vietnam. Through a profound integration of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things, this partnership has yielded groundbreaking solutions across disaster response, agriculture, and environmental management. The success stories, from AI-driven search and rescue simulations to Smart Eye’s impact on sugarcane monitoring, underscore the potential of technology to address complex challenges and drive sustainable development.
As Australia spotlights its AI proficiency during AI Month, initiatives like the Aus4Innovation program exemplify the power of responsible and innovative technology adoption, setting the stage for a future where collaborative tech advancements foster resilience, efficiency, and positive change on a global scale.
Collaboration with other entities is paramount in this digital era. Especially in the healthcare sector, having a robust digital infrastructure and leveraging technological advancements is crucial for effective cancer control. With the robust infrastructure established through collaboration, the Manatū Hauora’s Polynesian Health Corridors (PHC) programme is well-positioned to pioneer innovative approaches to cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
This initiative is a collaborative effort between PHC and critical partners, including Te Aka Mātauranga Matepukupuku (Cancer Research Centre) and Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa (Centre for Pacific and Global Health), housed within Waipapa Taumata Rau at The University of Auckland. The programme spans six partner countries: the Cook Islands, Niue, Tokelau, Samoa, Tonga, and Tuvalu.
Recognising the need for effective cancer control measures, Polynesian health leaders have identified cancer control as a top priority and a focal point for the PHC programme. During the design phase led by Waipapa Taumata Rau (University of Auckland), collaborative efforts are being made to shape the cancer control programme in alignment with the healthcare landscapes of each partner country. This inclusive approach ensures that the programme is tailored to address specific regional needs and challenges.
As part of the broader initiative, PHC aims to support the six partner countries in the seamless implementation of planned activities, emphasising integrating these initiatives into the New Zealand Health System. The design phase is anticipated to be substantially completed by mid-next year, paving the way for the subsequent steps in the programme’s execution.
Established in 2020, the Polynesian Health Corridors (PHC) programme operates under the auspices of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). It was conceived to fortify the ties between Aotearoa, New Zealand’s robust health system and its partner countries. PHC operates within the Global Health Group at the Public Health Agency|Te Pou Hauora Tūmatanui, a division of Manatū Hauora.
The collaboration with partners such as Te Aka Mātauranga Matepukupuku and Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa underscores the commitment of the PHC programme to leverage collective expertise and resources for the benefit of Polynesia. The emphasis on a multi-year cancer control programme reflects a forward-thinking approach to addressing the complex challenges of cancer within the region.
The multifaceted design of the cancer control initiative encompasses a spectrum of considerations, including early detection strategies, treatment modalities, and holistic support systems for affected individuals and their families. By actively involving partner countries in the design phase, PHC ensures that the programme aligns with the cultural nuances and healthcare infrastructures unique to each Polynesian nation.
In addition to its primary focus on cancer control, the PHC programme signifies a broader commitment to strengthening healthcare ties between Aotearoa, New Zealand and its Polynesian partners. The strategic collaboration with Waipapa Taumata Rau, a leading health research and education institution, adds a dimension to the initiative. Waipapa Taumata Rau’s expertise is instrumental in shaping the design phase of the cancer control programme, contributing evidence-based insights and leveraging its research capabilities.
As the design phase progresses, PHC anticipates a pivotal role in supporting the implementation of planned activities, fostering collaboration between partner countries, and facilitating seamless integration into the New Zealand Health System. The interconnected nature of this initiative underscores the importance of global cooperation and shared knowledge in tackling complex health challenges.
This initiative exemplifies the power of international cooperation in addressing pressing health concerns and sets a precedent for future collaborations in global health. The PHC programme’s collaborative efforts extend beyond regional boundaries, fostering a shared knowledge and resources model that transcends geopolitical constraints. As the design phase unfolds, the programme’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility remains central to its vision for transforming cancer control in Polynesia.