Reading time: 3 min
On December 17, 2024, Vanuatu experienced a 7.5 magnitude earthquake, with the most significant impact concentrated in Port Vila’s city center. The resilience of the Ni-Vanuatu people has been truly remarkable, demonstrating strength and unity in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges, opportunities remain for students to visit Vanuatu and witness firsthand the nation’s resilience. These study trips can offer valuable insights into disaster response, recovery, and community strength.
According to the latest update from Smartraveller (7 February 2025), the Australian Government confirmed “widespread damage to infrastructure, including roads and buildings, following the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that struck Port Vila and surrounding areas in December 2024. Essential services, including telecommunications, power, and water supply, have been restored in most areas. Many hotels and tourism operators are open for business…”
Vanuatu is currently rated Level 1: Exercise normal safety precautions by the Australian Government, indicating it remains a safe destination for visitors.
Current Situation in Vanuatu
In Port Vila, many businesses and government departments have relocated due to restricted access in certain areas. However, beyond the city center, the rest of Port Vila and Vanuatu sustained only minor damage and are now fully operational. Infrastructure, services, and daily activities have resumed, ensuring the country remains accessible to visitors.
The recovery process has highlighted the strength of Vanuatu’s communities, with local efforts focused on rebuilding and adapting to post-earthquake challenges. This period presents a valuable opportunity for students to engage in real-world learning about disaster recovery, resilience-building, and community cohesion.
Beyond recovery efforts, Vanuatu’s natural and cultural assets remain largely unaffected. The islands continue to offer unique experiences, from exploring pristine beaches and coral reefs to engaging with vibrant cultural traditions.
Vanuatu remains open, welcoming, and ready to share its stories of strength, adaptation, and natural beauty with those eager to learn and engage.
Educational Opportunities in Vanuatu
Educational trips to Vanuatu provide an immersive learning experience, offering perspectives on environmental sustainability, traditional knowledge, and disaster preparedness. Engaging with local communities allows students to understand how societies navigate challenges, rebuild essential services, and strengthen social connections after a natural disaster.
International student presence also contributes to ongoing recovery efforts by fostering knowledge exchange and increasing global awareness of resilience-building in island nations.
CISaustralia academic areas of expertise and focus in Vanuatu;
- Education
- Health
- Tourism, Hotel & Hospitality
- Environment science (and law) / Marine science
Meet Melissa, Marc and Lea – our Site Coordinators in Vanuatu
Born in France, Léa (right) and Marc (center) are passionate globe-trotters and adventure specialists. Now based in Vanuatu with their family, they have embraced life in this beautiful, raw, and authentic South Pacific island nation. Driven by a deep curiosity about the world, they see stepping out of their comfort zone as a badge of honor. For them, adventure, travel, and storytelling are powerful tools for growth, learning, camaraderie, and fun.
Melissa (left), known to everyone as Meli, is a friendly islander from Vanuatu dedicated to making student experiences unforgettable. She looks forward to showcasing the best of Vanuatu and sharing her culture and country with CISaustralia students.
If you’re interested in programming opportunities in Vanuatu or the broader Pacific region (including Fiji, Samoa, New Zealand, and New Caledonia), click here to complete our quick and easy expression of interest or enquiry form. One of our dedicated staff members will respond within 48 hours.
– Brad Dorahy, Founder & CEO
Click here to view a short introductory video from our onsite team!
