The Japan-funded Satellite Animation and Interactive Diagnosis (SATAID) training program, delivered by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is currently underway in Nadi, Fiji.

The program brings together meteorologists from across the South Pacific to strengthen satellite data analysis and improve early warning capabilities for extreme weather events.

The first phase of the training, taking place from 19–23 May 2025 at the Nalagi Hotel, covers the fundamentals of the SATAID system. This will be followed by an advanced three-week training that delves into complex satellite interpretation and forecasting techniques, with a focus on severe weather analysis.

Participating countries include Fiji, Cook Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. The training promotes regional collaboration, facilitates knowledge sharing, and encourages the adoption of standardized forecasting methods.

Given the vulnerability of Pacific Island nations to tropical cyclones and extreme weather, this regional effort aims to improve the capacity of local meteorological services to issue timely and accurate warnings. The Fiji Meteorological Service continues to play a key role in hosting and coordinating these trainings, reinforcing its position as a regional leader in meteorological education and disaster preparedness.