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所罗门群岛教育资讯

聚合政府与主流媒体的教育信息，自动译成中文，每天更新。

Etupioh: Keeping Our Children Safe Is a Shared Responsibility

‎Etupioh: Keeping Our Children Safe Is a Shared Responsibility ‎ ‎By ULUTAH GINA ‎Solomon Star, Gizo ‎ ‎Looking after and protecting children from violence and abuse is a shared responsibility that requires the commitment of parents, families, communities, churches, schools, government agencies, and every member of society. ‎ ‎This was the key message delivered by the Western Provincial Government's Education Authority representative, Willy Etupioh, during the launch of the second phase of the Solomon Islands Endim Vaelens Againstem Pikinini (SIEVAP) project held last week at Imagination Island, just outside Gizo Town. ‎ ‎Speaking on behalf of the Western Provincial Government (WPG), Mr. Etupioh said the responsibility of caring for children should not rest solely with parents or government authorities. Instead, every individual has a role to play in ensuring children grow up in safe, supportive, and nurturing environments free from violence, neglect, and abuse. ‎ ‎"Our children are our future, and their safety and wellbeing should be everyone's concern," Mr. Etupioh said. ‎ ‎He stressed that while parents remain the primary caregivers, communities must also remain vigilant and work together to prevent all forms of violence against children. ‎ ‎"Children deserve to grow up in homes and communities where they feel safe, respected, and loved. Protecting them is not only a family responsibility but also a community responsibility," he said. ‎ ‎Mr. Etupioh acknowledged the efforts of organisations, development partners, community leaders, teachers, churches, and government ministries that continue to raise awareness about child protection across the country. ‎ ‎He said projects such as SIEVAP play an important role in educating communities about children's rights, encouraging positive parenting practices, and strengthening systems that respond to cases of child abuse and neglect. ‎ ‎The Western Provincial Government, he said, remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote child protection, improve education, and strengthen partnerships between government agencies, non-government organisations, and local communities. ‎ ‎Mr. Etupioh encouraged parents to spend more time with their children, listen to their concerns, and guide them with care, patience, and understanding. ‎ ‎He also called on community leaders to report cases of abuse and ensure children receive the protection and support they deserve. ‎ ‎He said ending violence against children requires a collective effort and that lasting change can only be achieved when everyone works together toward the same goal. ‎ ‎The second phase of the Solomon Islands Endim Vaelens Againstem Pikinini (SIEVAP) project aims to strengthen child protection systems, increase public awareness of children's rights, and empower communities to create safer environments where every child can learn, grow, and reach their full potential. ‎ ‎The launch brought together representatives from the Western Provincial Government, national government ministries, development partners, civil society organisations, community leaders, and other stakeholders who reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the rights and wellbeing of children throughout the Solomon Islands. ‎ The event also highlighted the importance of continued collaboration, community participation, and education in preventing violence against children and building a safer future for the next generation. Ends Photo- Willy Etupioh WPAg representative delivering his opening remarks

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Solomon Star Education · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Australia reiterates commitment in tank handover to St Joseph’s

BY TONY IROGA Australia has reaffirmed its commitment to support community development and education in Solomon Islands with the handover of four water tanks to St Joseph Tenaru Secondary School. Speaking during the handover ceremony at the school yesterday, Australia’s Acting High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Andrew Schloeffel said the project reflects the strong and growing partnership between Australia and Solomon Islands while demonstrating the importance of empowering local communities. Mr Schloeffel acknowledged the presence of the Minister for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA), John Maneniaru, Catholic Education Secretary of the Archdiocese of Honiara, Jackson Meke, St Joseph Tenaru Secondary School Principal Jeffrey Poea, members of the school board and the wider school community. “We sincerely congratulate everyone who was involved in bringing this important project to life,” he said. “This project reflects not only the collaboration between Australia and Solomon Islands, but also our shared vision for a brighter future for the people of this country.” He said Australia believes the best development outcomes are achieved when local communities are empowered to take ownership of projects that improve their wellbeing. “This project is another example of a strong partnership between our two countries, where local communities are supported to take charge of their future,” he said. He revealed that the St Joseph Tenaru water tank project is one of 342 community partnership projects funded by Australia across Solomon Islands since 2019. “Australia has funded projects in every constituency and every province, making a real difference to the lives of thousands of Solomon Islanders,” he said. He added that Australia has invested more than SBD74.5 million in community development initiatives and local businesses through its Community Partnerships Programme. “We have recently opened a new round of Community Partnerships funding, and we encourage schools and community leaders to submit applications so we can continue supporting local development,” he said. Highlighting education as a key priority, Schloeffel said Australia remains committed to working closely with the Solomon Islands Government to improve access to quality education. “Education is one of the most important areas of cooperation between Australia and Solomon Islands. We are proud to support the Government’s Free Education Policy and our shared commitment to ensuring every child has access to quality education,” he said. Looking ahead, Schloeffel said both countries have a historic opportunity to further strengthen their relationship through a Comprehensive Bilateral Treaty. “This treaty will elevate our partnership to a new level, built on trust, mutual respect and open dialogue,” he said. He thanked the St Joseph Tenaru project committee, school leadership, community representatives, women’s representatives and volunteers for their dedication in delivering the project. “In celebrating these new water tanks today, we are also celebrating a brighter future that Australia and Solomon Islands continue to build together through our enduring partnership,” he said. St Joseph Tenaru Secondary School Principal Jeffrey Poea expressed gratitude to the Australian Government, through the Australian High Commission to Solomon Islands, for funding the water tank project. Mr Poea also acknowledged Australia’s previous support for the refurbishment of school buildings, valued at a total of SBD12 million, saying the assistance has significantly improved the school’s infrastructure and learning environment. Photo credit: Tony Iroga For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

The Australian High Commission Office in Honiara officially handed over four water tanks to St. Joseph’s Tenaru School

The Australian High Commission Office in Honiara officially handed over four water tanks to St. Joseph’s Tenaru School to improve water storage for students’ drinking and cooking needs. Note: This TV News Package was first aired on 28/07/26. Follow our Youtube channel for more of our latest news stories.⤵ https://www.youtube.com/@sibc-TV

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SIBC Education · 2026-07-29 Original ↗

Teacher whipping incident leaves one student in hospital in Isabel

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA A teacher at Sir Dudley Tuti College in Isabel Province is under investigation after allegedly whipping three male students with a ‘timber stick’, leaving one of them hospitalised with a suspected spinal injury. The incident occurred at around 6.30pm on Wednesday, July 22, while the students – one in Form 6, and two in Form 5 – were on duty as school caretakers during the term break. A source on the ground, who requested anonymity, said the teacher struck the boys across their backs without warning, in what one witness described as a mixture of “punches and whips”. Community members say the students were simply carrying out their caretaker duties when they were allegedly attacked without provocation. The School Principal told Island Sun yesterday the matter was an internal one and that reports circulating on Facebook were exaggerated and misleading the public. He maintained the incident was not as serious as portrayed. The principal said the teacher was related to some of the girls in the school dormitory, and that he (principal) was currently in town and still waiting for the school to formally report the incident to him. Isabel Principal Education Officer (PEO) and School Review Standards Officer, Ruben Dotho Jr, told the Island Sun that so far there has been no official report from the school. He said he is still waiting for a formal written complaint from the School Principal before the matter can be acted upon. Almost a week on, no formal report has been received. Speaking to the Island Sun yesterday, Provincial Minister for Health and Medical Services, Nathaniel Gudfraede, said one of the victims, a Form 5 student, is currently warded at Buala Hospital, where he is undergoing x-rays for a suspected spinal injury. Hospital staff say his back pain and possible bone damage are consistent with the alleged whipping. “The teacher should not apply the old system of whipping students. We expect our children to be safe in the hands of the school, and that kind of discipline should not be practised. It was a very sad report to hear,” said Gudfraede. The teacher could not be reached for comment. The other two students sustained less severe injuries and are said to be recovering under medical care. It is understood the case has been forwarded to the police for further investigation. Police commander for Isabel province could not be reached yesterday for comments. For feedback, contact: diivee56@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

Australian Universities Bring World-Class Study Opportunities Closer to Solomon Islanders

AUSTRALIAN UNIVERSITIES BRING WORLD-CLASS STUDY OPPORTUNITIES CLOSER TO SOLOMON ISLANDERS Fifteen leading Australian universities visited Honiara from 13 to 14 July 2026 for a Study Australia Education Mission (Roadshow), giving Solomon Islanders a unique opportunity to explore study options, connect directly with university representatives and take the next step towards an Australian education. The roadshow welcomed Australia Awards Scholarships applicants for Intake 2027, self-funded students, alumni, and education sector partners. Through one-on-one consultations, participants gained practical information on courses, campuses, student life and the support available to help them succeed. Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, hosted participating universities, Australia Awards alumni Austrade representatives, and Solomon Islands Government officials at his residence on 14 July. “Every Solomon Islander who studies in Australia carries with them not only their own hopes and ambitions, but also the potential to bring new skills, ideas and connections back home,” High Commissioner Roach said. “That is why education is such an important pillar of the Solomon Islands-Australia partnership. Investing in people is one of the most powerful things we can do as a development partner.” Solomon Islands Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development Deputy Secretary Corporate, Coldrine Kolae, encouraged Solomon Islanders to take advantage of study opportunities in Australia, saying the knowledge and experience gained are an investment in the country’s future development. Australian Trade and Investment Commissioner for Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, Esther Sun, said it was important that Solomon Islanders knew about the full range of education opportunities available in Australia. “This roadshow brings Australian education closer to Solomon Islanders, providing direct access to trusted information, expert guidance, and world-class study opportunities” Commissioner Sun said. “It reflects our shared commitment to investing in people and empowering the next generation of leaders, professionals and change-makers.” For many participants, the roadshow helped turn study aspirations into achievable plans. One Australia Awards candidate for Intake 2027 said the event helped her better understand her preferred course, the university application process and what life would be like in her chosen Australian state. As of February 2026, 137 Solomon Islanders were studying in Australia, including 77 Australia Awards scholars. They are part of a growing community of students and alumni using Australian education to build skills, strengthen institutions and support communities across the country. Learn more about Australia Awards through the website here: www.australiaawards.gov.au. //end// - AHC Photo captions: Caption 1: Australia Deputy High Commissioner, Andrew Schloeffel with Austrade and MEHRD Representatives Caption 2: Australia National University alumni group photo with ANU representative. Caption 3: Australian High Commissioner, Jeff Roach delivering his official remarks. Caption 4: DFAT representation group photo with Australian University representatives. Caption 5: General public during the public session of the roadshow event at the Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel. Caption 6: Human Development Counsellor, Dr Tristan Armstrong and AHC First Secretary for Education greeted SINU invited guests. Caption 7: Roadshow reception group photo.

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Solomon Star Education · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

Japan to support free education rollout, new school pledge

BY JOSES SAREN Japan will help fund Solomon Islands’ free education policy through a concessional loan already signed, and has pledged support for a new school through the Sasakawa Foundation, Prime Minister Matthew Wale said upon his arrival home yesterday afternoon from an official visit to Tokyo. Wale described Japan as a reliable, long-standing partner, saying past disappointments in the relationship had been overcome and bilateral ties realigned to a “good, reliable partnership”. He said the concessional loan that was signed will ensure that the free education policy rolls out in full from January. “We have money to start free education on January, full complete roll out,” Wale said. He said Japan, through the Sasakawa Foundation, part of the Nippon Foundation, had pledged to build a new school, with further details to be worked out when the Foundation’s chief executive visits Solomon Islands next month. “We are thinking that’s a TAFE, a national level TAFE institution,” Wale said, adding that the goal was to support the country’s STEM and skills objectives within the education system. During the Tokyo visit, Wale was accorded a Guard of Honour and held bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, and also met Nippon Foundation Honorary Chair Yohei Sasakawa and JICA President Akihiko Tanaka, with whom Solomon Islands separately signed a Development Policy Loan for fiscal stability and economic resilience. Photo credit: Island Sun For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-07-28 Original ↗

KOICA backs SINU fisheries facility upgrade

BY TONY IROGA The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has secured a new grant from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to refurbish its Department of Fisheries Complex at the Ranadi Campus, strengthening facilities for fisheries education. The grant agreement, worth up to US$54,548, was signed on Wednesday between SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau and KOICA Fiji Country Director Han Kyul Sam Cho. According to a SINU statement, the funding will support the renovation of the Fisheries Department building under the Support for the Establishment and Capacity Building of Fisheries Studies in Solomon Islands project. Professor Aqorau said the agreement reflects the strong partnership between Solomon Islands and the Republic of Korea. “Today’s signing reflects the deep friendship and enduring partnership between the Republic of Korea and Solomon Islands. Through KOICA, the Government and people of Korea have consistently invested in strengthening higher education and human resource development in our country,” he said. He said the refurbishment will provide students and staff with a modern learning environment that better supports practical training, research and innovation in fisheries. “We are delighted that KOICA has once again demonstrated its confidence in SINU by supporting the refurbishment of this important facility. When completed, our students will enjoy a refreshed and attractive learning environment,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of fisheries to the country’s economy, saying the upgraded facility will help prepare future fisheries professionals to sustainably manage Solomon Islands’ marine resources. The statement said under the agreement, SINU will oversee the design, procurement and construction of the refurbishment works, while KOICA will provide funding and technical support. “The Fisheries Complex was originally funded by KOICA and built by Hatanga Limited. Once the refurbishment is completed, the facility will continue to be owned and maintained by SINU,” the statement said. Professor Aqorau thanked KOICA and the Government of the Republic of Korea for their continued support, saying SINU looks forward to expanding cooperation in education, research, innovation and capacity building. The refurbishment project is expected to improve teaching and learning for current and future fisheries students while supporting the wider fisheries sector in Solomon Islands. Photo credit: SINU For feedback, contact: tonyiroga8@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-07-27 Original ↗

Children deserve to be free from violence: Seni

BY BEN BILUA Gizo EVERY child in Solomon Islands deserves to grow up free from violence, exploitation and harmful practices, Save the Children Solomon Islands Lead Advocacy Officer Fredrick Seni says. Speaking during the launch of the second phase of the Solomon Islands Endim Vaelens Againstem Pikinini (SIEVAP) Project in Gizo, Seni said violence against children remains a serious concern and requires the collective commitment of everyone to address. He said children make up the largest segment of Solomon Islands’ population and represent the country’s future, making their protection a shared responsibility. “Children continue to experience violence in Solomon Islands, and that needs to stop. “As parents, leaders, service providers, community members and partners, we all share the responsibility of ensuring that every child is safe, protected, heard and given the opportunity to thrive,” Seni. He stressed that every child has the right to grow up in a safe and supportive environment where they can reach their full potential. Seni also highlighted the importance of protecting girls from harmful practices that prevent them from accessing education and achieving their aspirations. “Every girl deserves the opportunity to complete her education. Every child deserves adults who will stand up, speak out and protect their rights,” he said. Seni challenged individuals, families and communities to reflect on the role they can play in creating safer environments for children. “Today, I challenge each one of us to ask ourselves: What can I do to make my home, my village, my school and my community safer for children?” he said. Seni emphasised that safeguarding children is not solely the responsibility of the government or development partners but of every member of society. “Together, let us ensure that girls are sitting in classrooms, pursuing their dreams and preparing for a brighter future—not being married before they have even had the chance to be children,” he said. The SIEVAP Phase Two project aims to strengthen efforts to prevent violence against children and promote safer communities through collaboration with government agencies, churches, community leaders, youth groups and development partners across Solomon Islands. For feedback, contact: maetuana777@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Education · 2026-07-27 Original ↗