BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
A long-serving teacher and Buma/Baolo Administrator, Madam Margaret Wate, has called on education authorities to make frequent visits to schools across the province to strengthen and encourage school leaders to improve their schools.
Madam Wate made the call during an event held at Buma Catholic Parish to mark this year’s World Teachers’ Day.
She said one of the major challenges schools in the country are facing is the influence of technology, which is increasingly accessible to students.
According to Madam Wate, regular visits to schools could help strengthen weakened school rules and encourage teachers to remain committed to their roles as educators.
“We need a strong Board of Management and visitation from the Malaita Provincial Education Authority to visit our schools, and we need to strengthen the PTA committee in order to help and give our leaders the strength and have a strong mind to do our work as teachers,” she said.
Madam Wate also spoke about the barriers and challenges teachers face as technology continues to influence students’ learning.
She said it has become increasingly difficult for teachers to teach students because many students use mobile phones to research information for themselves.
“It is a very difficult thing for us teachers at the moment, when the students search for themselves using the mobile phones and be like teachers for themselves,” she said.
“This is what we have experienced, and sometimes it’s hard for us to teach and for the students to concentrate and learn from us,” she added.
Madam Wate’s comments highlight the growing impact of technology on education and the need for schools, teachers, parents and education authorities to work together to ensure technology supports rather than undermines students’ learning.
[Photo Caption: Madam Margaret Wate speaking during the event on Monday this week.]
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
HUMANITARIAN organisations, government representatives and civil society partners have been challenged to put humanitarian principles into practice to ensure disaster responses protect the safety, dignity and rights of affected communities.
The call was made at the conclusion of a two-day training on Safe, Gender-responsive, Accountable and Effective Humanitarian Action held in Gizo, Western Province.
The training, organised by Plan International Solomon Islands, brought together representatives from the Western Provincial Government, non-government organisations, civil society organisations, facilitators and other humanitarian partners.
Plan International Solomon Islands Emergency Response Manager Henson Makoani said the safety and dignity of people affected by emergencies must remain at the centre of humanitarian work.
He said disaster programmes must be implemented in line with recognised humanitarian standards, including humanitarian principles, the Sphere Minimum Standards, Protection Principles and the Core Humanitarian Standard.
Makoani also stressed the importance of effective communication with communities during emergencies, saying clear and timely information is critical to building trust and ensuring assistance responds to actual needs.
He said affected communities should not simply be treated as recipients of humanitarian assistance.
“Instead, they must be given meaningful opportunities to participate in decisions affecting their lives, while also having safe and accessible channels to provide feedback or raise complaints.
“Accountability to affected populations means communities should have a voice in shaping humanitarian responses,” Makoani said.
He said local experience and traditional knowledge are also important in strengthening disaster preparedness and response, particularly given the challenges communities face during emergencies in Solomon Islands.
Makoani encouraged humanitarian agencies to work closely with local leaders, women’s groups, youth networks and organisations representing people with disabilities.
He said stronger collaboration with these groups would help ensure humanitarian responses are inclusive and reflect the different needs of affected people.
The training also reinforced the message that humanitarian action must go beyond the delivery of food, shelter and other assistance.
Affected people must be heard, protected, respected and involved in decisions that directly affect their lives.
Plan International Solomon Islands reaffirmed its commitment to supporting government agencies, NGOs and CSOs through technical assistance, joint learning and continued coordination to strengthen humanitarian preparedness and response.
The training concluded with appreciation to the Western Provincial Government for its support, facilitators for sharing their expertise and participants for their active engagement and commitment to improving humanitarian response in Solomon Islands.
[Participants taking part in group discussion. Photo Ben Bilua]
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
Nemei Primary School has hit a major milestone after holding a big celebration over the weekend on Sunday, October 4, 2026. The school, which is located in the inland village of Koge, held an official blessing and opening ceremony for its primary campus.
The school sits deep in the center of Isabel Province, inside the Kolomola Ward of the Hograno district. It is built to serve children from three main inland villages, Koge, Siligodu, and Riukasa. The opening of this school brings massive relief to local families.
For a long time, the little children in these areas faced hard times because they had to walk a few kilometers through rough bush tracks and hills just to get an education. Now, they finally have their own school right in their community.
Community members and families from Koge, Siligodu, and Riukasa gather to share a celebratory feast during the school opening.Photo – Douglas Vahia.
According to the history shared at the event, the school started a long time ago in 2011. Back then, it was just a tiny kindergarten started by Gwendalyn Hoamana. Over the last 15 years, the school grew slowly until it became a full primary school. To look back on this long journey, the community chose a special theme for the opening day: “15 years learning, growing in God’s light, Nemei Primary, 2011-2026.”
Officials from the provincial government, the church, and the education office travelled to the village for the ceremony. The main guest of Honor was the Provincial Ward Member for Kolomola Ward, Elison Vure. Other important guests included Priest Fr. Anthony Kame, the Principal Education Inspector Mr. Rueben Dotho Jr , and the Provincial Senior Assistant Officer Hubert Odikana.
During the speeches, the Principal Education Inspector, Mr. Rueben Dotho Jr., spoke strongly to the crowd. He told the people from the three villages that they must look after the new buildings. He said the school can only work well if the community and the teachers work together like a team.
Provincial Education Inspectorate. Reuben Dotho, speaking during the Opening. Photo – Douglas Vahia
“Please, now that the school is opened, I kindly ask the communities around here to take responsibility and ownership of this school,” Mr. Dotho said to the parents and leaders. “Staff must work together with the community, and communities please do the same so our children can learn well.”
The Ward Member, Mr. Elison Vure, also talked about the big struggles that rural schools face in Isabel Province. He noted that Nemei Primary is one of the most isolated highland schools in the province. Because the road is bad and the place is hard to reach, many qualified teachers do not want to come and work there.
Honourable Elison Vure at the middle with two education Officers besides. Photo – Douglas Vahia.
Even though the road work is hard, Mr. Vure promised that the provincial government would keep trying to help the mountain communities.
“I am still working on the road access,” Vure told the gathering. “Even though it is very difficult, I will still work with the community to support this school.”
Speaking during the program, school principal and headmistress, Madam Dorothy Kofu, stood up to thank her teaching staff and the village workers. She said the team did an amazing job even though they did not have enough books, materials, or money.
“We faced too many challenges on the way, but now we have come together to officially bless and open the school,” Madam Kofu said. She praised the teachers for not giving up when things were tough.
Priest Fr. Anthony Kame stands by the official school banner ahead of the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Photo by Douglas Vahia
The big day ended with a church blessing for the school led by Priest Fr. Anthony Kame and Mr. Hubert Odikana. The elders of the village explained that the name “Nemei” is very special. It was made by putting together the names of two old priests who first dreamed of building a school in the village many years ago. With the doors now open, the children of Koge, Siligodu, and Riukasa can look forward to a bright future.
[Photo: Students in their yellow uniforms stand proudly alongside school staff and provincial leaders in front School Classroom. Photo – Douglas Vahia.]
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Western Provincial Government (WPG), Planning Division, together with key stakeholders, is now into Week 2 of the Ward Development Committee (WDC) Training Roll-Out in the Province.
A statement from WPG said that the training is focused on Component 2b of the Integrated Economic Development and Community Resilience (IEDCR), which aims to strengthen the capacity of WDCs to risk-inform their Ward Development Plans and proposed community projects.
It said that with the threats of climate change risk-informed planning and decision must be adopted when planning for the wards.
“Our communities face different climate and disaster risks, including flooding, coastal erosion, strong winds, landslides and other hazards and through this training, WDC members are learning how to identify the risks and hazards affecting their communities, understand how these risks can impact development activities, map and document risks within their wards,
identify practical interventions to reduce risks and build resilience and integrate climate and disaster risk considerations into their development plans and projects” the statement said.
The statement said eight wards have completed the training, and the roll-out will continue until all 26 wards across Western Province have been covered.
It said the undertakings are more than just training, it is about empowering communities to understand their risks and take action to build safer, stronger and more resilient communities.
[Ward 13 WDC members with their MPA Hon Alesina Redfern and Facilitators Group Photo. Photo Credit: WPG.]
By RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
About 21 schools in East Kwaio, Malaita Province, from Olomburi to Kwaibaita, marked World Teachers’ Day today with a special celebration held at Atoifi.
This was the first ever celebration organised and celebrated at the region to mark the important day.
The theme of the 2026 celebration is “Protecting and Advancing status of Teachers Profession.”
Delivering the keynote speech, guest of honour and senior lecturer at Pacific Adventist University, Lesta Asugeni, reminded teachers of their responsibilities and commitment to their students.
Highlights from the celebration. Photo: Solo vibes.]
He said teachers’ attitudes and behaviour might not always be acceptable to students in the classroom, but their actions are often motivated by care, love and a sense of responsibility for their students’ future.
“Sometimes teachers may challenge you and may give you hard words, but that doesn’t mean they’re trying to spoil you or to destroy your future. They want to build you,” he said.
Asugeni referred to Proverbs 22:6, which says: “Train the child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
He called on teachers, students, parents and communities to work together and cooperate for the benefit of students.
“I want to call for togetherness and cooperation among students, communities, as well as our teachers. I hear schools that have problems and confrontations with communities, with students arising, but let us see understanding and dialogue rather than conflict,” he said.
Asugeni also reminded teachers that education is about changing lives, not merely transferring information.
World Teachers’ Day is celebrated annually on October 5 to recognise and celebrate teachers around the world.
The day commemorates the anniversary of the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers, which sets benchmarks for teachers’ rights and responsibilities, as well as standards for their initial preparation, further education, recruitment, employment, and teaching and learning conditions.
Similar celebration has occurred at other regions of Malaita early this week.
[Photo Caption: Highlights from the celebration. Photo: Solo vibes.]
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
TEACHERS need more than public appreciation, Speaker of the Western Provincial Assembly Ramrakha Aquila Talasasa says.
Speaking during the World Teachers’ Day celebration in Gizo, Talasasa said while public recognition of teachers is important, genuine support for the profession must go beyond ceremonies and words of appreciation.
He said teachers need sound preparation, opportunities for continuing professional development, appropriate learning resources, reasonable working conditions and the professional freedom to exercise informed judgement in the classroom.
Talasasa said the Solomon Islands Government must renew its attention to protecting and advancing the status of teaching as a profession rather than relying on recognition as a way of motivating teachers.
“This distinction matters because teaching is a profession of continuous learning,” he said.
Talasasa said teachers are working in an education environment that is constantly changing, including curriculum reforms, new classroom technologies, developments in educational research and an increasingly complex information environment faced by student.
He said professional development was therefore essential to help teachers respond to these changes while maintaining the fundamental goals of education, including comprehension, reasoning, communication and curiosity.
“We therefore call for more attention and resources to help build teaching capacity,” Talasasa said.
He also highlighted the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association’s (SINTA) recent launch of the “Go Public! Fund Education Campaign 2026”, which seeks to draw attention to the escalating problem of classroom overcrowding.
Talasasa questioned how the situation could develop by 2027 if the issue was not addressed urgently.
“How much more in 2027?” he asked, warning that the situation could become an even bigger challenge for the country.
Talasasa said the call for systematic reform of the education sector was particularly significant because it came directly from teachers working on the ground.
He said teachers themselves had raised concerns about severe shortages of classroom space and the psychological pressure created by unsustainable workloads.
“These situations can weaken our education system,” Talasasa said.
He cautioned that any major changes to education policy must be matched by serious investment in school quality, teacher support, infrastructure and the capacity to implement reforms.
Talasasa warned that a rushed approach to expanding access to education could result in increased enrolment without a corresponding improvement in learning outcomes.
“Solomon Islands must move beyond slogans and policies but rather focus on whether the education system is ready to absorb increased numbers of students without compromising the quality of teaching and learning,” he said.
His comments come as teachers across the country mark World Teachers’ Day, with growing calls for greater investment in the people, facilities and resources needed to deliver quality education.
For Talasasa, appreciating teachers should not be limited to celebrating them once a year. It must be reflected in the policies, resources and working conditions provided to enable them to perform one of the country’s most important professions.
[Mr. Ramrakha Aquila Talasasa delivering his speech during the celebration.]
Newspaper celebrates two decades of journalism, honours founder and embraces digital future
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
THE Island Sun has marked its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of journalism while looking ahead to a new era driven by digital media and artificial intelligence.
The anniversary was marked yesterday, October 6, under the theme “Celebrating 20 Years of Informing Solomon Islands and Beyond.”
The occasion reflected on the newspaper’s journey since its first edition was published in 2006, while highlighting its transition towards becoming a fully digital news organisation.
A group photo of Island Sun staff, guests and Directors during the official program to mark the newspaper’s 20th anniversary yesterday. Photo: John Houanihau
Managing Director and Publisher Lloyd Loji said the anniversary was not only a time to celebrate the newspaper’s achievements but also to prepare for the changing media landscape.
“The future can no longer depend only on the printed newspaper,” Mr Loji said.
He said Island Sun began rolling out its digital strategy in August, with the newsroom leading the transition.
The strategy will strengthen the newspaper’s website and social media platforms, improve breaking news delivery and expand digital and video content for readers in Solomon Islands, the Pacific and beyond.
Staff line up for the anniversary lunch. Photo: John Houanihau
Island Sun started as a weekly newspaper before expanding to five editions a week.
Its operations later grew with the establishment of Sun Printing in 2011, as well as offices in Auki and Gizo.
Loji said the newspaper had faced major challenges over the past two decades, including the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing printing and operational costs, technological changes, social media and the emergence of artificial intelligence.
Despite these challenges, he said Island Sun had continued to adapt and build resilience.
From left: Publisher Lloyd Loji, MASI President Ofani Eremae, Fr George Dagi and Director Goodlyn Loji at the anniversary celebration. Photo: John Houanihau
He acknowledged the contribution of all staff, including journalists, editors, printers, drivers, sales staff, cleaners and street sellers.
“The success of Island Sun does not rest on the directors or management alone,” he said.
Honouring founder
Former Island Sun editor and current Media Association of Solomon Islands (MASI) President Ofani Eremae paid tribute to the late founder and publisher Mathias Loji, describing him as an innovative and business-minded leader.
Eremae said Island Sun’s survival for two decades was a significant achievement for the local media industry.
Island Sun staff listen to speeches during the anniversary program. Photo: John Houanihau
He said the newspaper had survived major changes and remained an important player in serving the public.
He encouraged staff to continue supporting management as the media industry faces new challenges from technology, social media and artificial intelligence.
Digital future
Chief Editor Irwin Angiki, who was in Sydney on a week-long programme, sent his anniversary remarks to the celebration.
He congratulated staff on reaching the 20-year milestone and acknowledged the challenges the newspaper had faced.
Angiki also paid tribute to late founder Mathias Loji, saying his leadership helped Island Sun survive the COVID-19 pandemic and emerge strong enough to recover.
Former Island Sun editor and MASI President Ofani Eremae pays tribute to the late founder of Island Sun Matthias Loji during his remarks. Photo: John Houanihau
He acknowledged former newsroom leaders including Priestly Habru, Richard Toke, Gina Kekea and Ofani Eremae, for their contribution to developing and mentoring Island Sun journalists.
Angiki also praised current Publisher Lloyd Loji for his leadership and vision.
He highlighted several milestones achieved by Island Sun in recent years, including its participation in a major Pacific media artificial intelligence project.
Island Sun is among Pacific newsrooms participating in Google’s first Pacific project introducing AI to the media, with the newsroom expected to develop its own in-house AI system at the end of the 18-month project.
Angiki said Island Sun’s transition into digital publishing began in August, with the company aiming to become a fully digital news organisation soon.
Island Sun staff enjoy the anniversary lunch. Photo: John Houanihau
He said the digital vision was initially initiated by the late Mathias Loji in 2021 and strengthened following a 2022 visit by PACMAS/ABC International Development’s Grant Sherlock.
“Publisher Lloyd this year has fulfilled his father’s vision in this achievement,” Angiki said.
Regional recognition
Angiki also highlighted Island Sun’s growing regional presence, including its participation as a full financial member with voting rights at the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) Summit in Fiji this year.
He said the recognition Island Sun received from regional and international media representatives demonstrated the growing reach of the newspaper’s brand.
Managing Director Lloyd Loji delivers his remarks. Photo: John Houanihau
He also pointed to improvements in the newsroom’s reporting and verification standards, supported by local and overseas training.
Two Island Sun reporters are currently completing one-year diploma journalism studies at the University of Waikato in New Zealand and are expected to return in November.
Angiki also highlighted Island Sun’s successful PACMAS content project earlier this year, saying the newsroom was the first of 16 recipients to complete the project and exceeded its target by almost double.
He thanked the entire newsroom team for their commitment and contribution to the newspaper’s growth.
The anniversary celebration brought together Island Sun staff, management, former newsroom members and invited guests to reflect on the newspaper’s two-decade journey.
As Island Sun enters its third decade, the anniversary marked not only a celebration of its past but also a major shift towards its digital future.
From its first edition in 2006 to its digital transition in 2026, Island Sun continues to evolve while maintaining its commitment to informing Solomon Islands and beyond.
A NEW CHAPTER: Island Sun marks two decades of journalism with an anniversary celebration
yesterday attended by staff, supporters and invited guests. From left: Director Goodlyn Loji, All
Saints Rector Fr George Dagi, Managing Director/Publisher Lloyd Loji and MASI President Ofani
Eremae cut the anniversary cake. The milestone also highlighted Island Sun’s transition into the
digital era and its vision for the future. Photo credit: John Houanihau.
Estee Aiolupotea, who was born in Samoa and raised in South Auckland, graduated from the University of Auckland on 24 September with a conjoint Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts, the university said.
SINU Vice Chancellor Dr Transform Aqorau calls for greater access to higher education and skills training in the provinces. By Steven Kamoa Solomon Islands National University Vice Chancellor Dr Transform Aqorau says greater access to higher education and skills training is needed in the provinces, with geography not preventing young Solomon Islanders from pursuing education [...]
The post SINU Looks to Expand Provincial Education Opportunities appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
By Rodrick Desuri
Auki
The School Principal of Su’u National Secondary School in West Kwaio, Malaita Province, has refuted claims that an outsider entered the school’s girls’ dormitory and threatened female students.
Reports received by this paper said that a man entered the girls’ dormitory on Saturday night and allegedly threatened students with a pair of scissors, causing shock and disturbance among the female students.
However, Principal John Oiuru described the incident as a minor one and said the matter had been resolved by the school administration.
He explained that the incident involved an outsider who entered the girls’ dormitory and frightened the students.
“The incident is just a minor issue and has been solved by the administration. It involves an outsider who entered the girls’ dormitory, which shocked and frightened the girls,” he said.
Principal Oiuru said the school does not welcome such incidents and called on communities to take responsibility for people experiencing mental health difficulties in order to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
He said the school was operating normally and that the incident had not caused any significant disruption to school activities.
“Currently, the issue is solved and the school is running smoothly,” he said.
[Photo Caption: Photo of the Su’u National Secondary School boundary. Photo supplied.]
By Rodrick Desuri
Auki
The School Principal of Buma/Baolo Community High School has encouraged spouses and family members to support teachers in their professional duties.
Principal Ben Morosini made the call during the school’s World Teachers’ Day celebration at the Buma Parish station this afternoon.
He said teachers could perform at their best when they received understanding and support from their spouses and families.
“We all have partners, and teachers can have a better day at work when their spouses support them,” Morosini said.
He used the example of children going to school without eating breakfast, saying this could affect their ability to learn and enjoy the school day.
“It is the same with teachers. When spouses do not understand or support their partners, you can see the effect in their appearance and performance,” he said.
Morosini urged family members and spouses to understand the demands placed on teachers and to provide support when they faced heavy workloads and other commitments.
“At times, teachers are overloaded with schoolwork and other commitments. But when there is no support from their spouses, you will see that they may not perform to the best of their ability,” he said.
“This is very important, and I want to remind my good teachers: when your spouse supports you, you will be able to give your full effort to your students,” Morosini added.
Buma/Baolo teachers also expressed their gratitude to the school leaders and administration during the celebration.
This was the second year that Buma/Baolo Community High School has celebrated World Teachers’ Day.
[Photo Caption: Buma/Baolo School Principal, Ben Morosini.]
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
TEACHERS from six schools in South Choiseul have gathered to celebrate World Teachers’ Day with a three-day programme highlighting the important role teachers play in shaping the lives and future of children.
Teachers from Papara Community High School, Nabusasa Primary School, Sepa Primary School, BOE Community High School, Panarui Community High School and Sasamunga Primary School took part in the celebrations from October 4 to 6.
The programme included a choir competition, entertainment, parade and traditional dances, bringing teachers from the six schools together for fellowship and celebration.
Teachers from South Choiseul celebrating the World Teacher’s Day. Photo supplied.
Teacher at Sasamuga Primary School, Charles Tani Kiko, said the annual gathering provides an important opportunity for teachers to come together and recognise their contribution to education and society.
He said the BAVISA teachers organise the celebration every year, with the event moving from one host village to another.
Kiko acknowledged the principals and school chairpersons of the six participating schools for their support in organising the event.
He also thanked the education provider for its donation and Member of Parliament Mr Tozen Loekana for his continued support towards teachers.
Teachers from South Choiseul celebrating the World Teacher’s Day. Photo supplied.
Kiko said the annual celebration was more than just an occasion for entertainment, as it reminded teachers of the dignity and value of every child.
“This occasion reminds us teachers to uphold the dignity and value of each child as a special gift,” he said.
He said teachers should also take pride in knowing that they play a fundamental role in producing professionals who serve communities and the country.
“Behind every lawyer, doctor, nurse, engineer and other professional, there is a teacher behind them all,” Kiko said.
He encouraged teachers not to become discouraged when things do not turn out as expected, saying their contribution to society remains significant.
Teachers from South Choiseul celebrating the World Teacher’s Day. Photo supplied.
“My message is, though things might not turn the way we expected, as teachers we should be proud because behind all these professional people, we teachers are there,” he said.
Kiko said teaching should not be viewed simply as a profession but as a lifelong commitment because teachers work directly with people and have a responsibility to nurture the next generation.
“Teaching is not just a job. It is a lifetime commitment because we are dealing with human beings, which is the highest dignity of God’s creation,” he said.
He also paid tribute to teachers who served before the current generation, including those who have retired.
“I salute teachers who have gone before us, those who retired. What you have planted continues to grow with us teachers now, who continue what our teachers have done for us,” Kiko said.
The South Choiseul World Teachers’ Day celebration therefore provided an opportunity for teachers to honour their profession, strengthen relationships among schools and reaffirm their commitment to educating and nurturing future generations.
[Teachers from South Choiseul celebrating the World Teacher’s Day. Photo supplied.]
BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Water has handed over three major water storage tanks to the Ziata landowning community in Noro, Western Province, honouring their ongoing partnership and support for key water infrastructure.
The delivery, made on Tuesday last week, includes two 5,000-liter tanks and one 10,000-liter tank. The tanks are set to bolster local community initiatives and improve water storage capacity for Goldie Secondary School.
Water tanks donated by Solomon Water to Ziata Landowning group on Tuesday at Noro. Photo: SIWA.
A statement from Solomon Water said, the handover reflects the utility’s dedication to working hand-in-hand with resource owners throughout the implementation of the Noro-Ziata Water Supply Project.
“Solomon Water acknowledges the Ziata Community Advisory Committee (CAC), landowning group representatives, and the wider community for their continued cooperation and support throughout the project,” the statement said.
The project contractor, REEVES, has also been maintaining close ties with local leadership to ensure smooth operations on the ground.
“REEVES has been working closely with the Ziata CAC and landowning representatives to listen to concerns, address grievances, and find solutions together so that project activities can continue smoothly,” SIWA added.
Solomon Water remains committed to working closely with the community, the provincial government, and key stakeholders as we move towards completion of the Noro–Ziata Water Supply Project.”
The Noro–Ziata venture is a key component of the broader Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Project (UWSSSP), aimed at significantly improving water access and quality across the Noro region.
[Ziata Landowning group Representative, during handover last week. Photo- SIWA]
By RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
Teachers from Baolo Secondary, Primary and Extension schools gathered at Buma Catholic Church in West Kwaio, Malaita Province marks World Teachers’ Day with a Thanksgiving Mass.
The programme started yesterday with recollection from Parish Priest and continues today under the theme “Standing With Teachers.”
The Thanksgiving Mass provided an opportunity for teachers to reflect on their journey, the challenges they face, and their important role in educating students and future generations.
During the Mass, Fr Gabriel Maeabu thanked the teachers for their efforts, time and commitment as they continue to teach and support students in their schools.
Teachers from Baolo Secondary, Primary and Extension schools gathered at Buma Catholic Church in West Kwaio, Malaita Province marks World Teachers’ Day with a Thanksgiving Mass.Photo supplied.
He said teachers should be appreciated for their hard work and dedication.
“Even though you may not be physically appreciated by parents and others, God does it. He appreciates you all because you are the ones supporting His children,” he said.
Fr Maeabu encouraged the teachers to reflect on their work and identify ways to improve their teaching.
He also urged them to teach their students with love, just as God loves His people.
“I encourage you all, please teach your students with love and passion, because whenever you do it with love, God will love you to do His will,” he said.
The teachers’ celebration continues today with fun games and a feast later in the day.
The Buma, Baolo teachers have marked World Teachers’ Day together for the past two years.
[Photo Caption: Buma/Baolo teachers pose for a group photo and participate in the Thanksgiving Mass. Photo supplied.]
Teuila Hughes, a doctoral candidate in Dance Studies at the University of Auckland, said her childhood in Fiji laid the foundations for her research into Siva Samoa, the university said.
奥克兰大学(University of Auckland)舞蹈学博士候选人Teuila Hughes表示,她在斐济的童年为她对萨摩亚舞(Siva Samoa)的研究奠定了基础,大学如是说。
In a commentary released by the University of Auckland, Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga said the Pacific offers solutions, not only stories of vulnerability, as leaders meet in Fiji for pre-COP31 talks on climate and health.
在奥克兰大学发布的一篇评论中,科林·图库伊通加爵士(Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga)表示,太平洋提供了解决方案,而不仅仅是脆弱性的故事,因为各国领导人在斐济举行COP31前的气候与健康会议。
BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has submitted its official Provider Registration Application documents to the Solomon Islands Tertiary Education and Skills Authority (SITESA).
The university submitted the paperwork on Friday, October 2, following a detailed preparation process led by SINU’s Standards and Quality Office with support from faculty heads and support divisions.
In a press statement released yesterday, SINU highlighted that the submission marks a major milestone in strengthening its governance, financial systems, and academic quality through external assessment.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau praised staff for their hard work in preparing the application, while noting that the evaluation process is just beginning.
“While the submission represents a significant achievement, the assessment and decision by SITESA are still to come,” Professor Aqorau said. “SINU remains prepared to respond to any questions, provide additional evidence, and address matters that may be identified during the assessment process.”
He added that the registration process will build a lasting culture of quality across the institution.
“The policies, records, and procedures prepared for the application are expected to contribute to a continuing culture of quality assurance across the University and to support evidence-based decision-making,” he said.
The university confirmed that this registration step lays the groundwork for future programme accreditation, improved student support services, and ongoing staff development.
[SINU VC Dr. Transform Aqorau presented the Registration file to SITESA rep at SITESA office. Photo: SINU]
BY CHARLES STENNETT
Two Solomon Islands National University, SINU, staff have gained knowledge and understanding of effective governance, institutional accountability, risk management, digital governance, human capital development and organizational performance after attending a ten-day training in China last month.A statement from the University said that Elizabeth Adifaka and Maureen Qaqara represented the institution at the training held from September 15 to the 24.
It said the training covered areas in effective governance, institutional accountability, risk management, digital governance, human capital development and organizational performance.
They also covered areas in strengthening institutional policies and structures, improving risk management and internal controls, linking strategic planning with operational implementation, and promoting responsible use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
The statement said the programme also highlighted the importance of education, skills development and human capital in supporting institutional and national development.
The knowledge and insights gained will contribute to ongoing efforts to strengthen governance and institutional effectiveness at SINU.
SINU acknowledges and appreciates the People’s Republic of China for providing this valuable opportunity for professional development, knowledge exchange and capacity building.
[A group photo of participants and individuals Elizabeth Adifaka and Maureen Qaqara. Photo Credit: SINU]
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
A shipload of recovery materials has left Honiara for Simbo Island to support communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
Western Province Premier Billy Veo said the barge has already departed Honiara and is expected to arrive in Simbo at any time.
Veo applauded the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for fast-tracking the recovery effort and supporting the delivery of materials to Simbo.
He said the materials will help communities rebuild their homes and recover from the destruction caused by the cyclone.
“This will help build new houses, repair houses and support our communities to rebuild,” Veo said.
He said the arrival of the materials marked an important step in the recovery process for Simbo communities.
He acknowledged the support provided through the recovery effort and stressed the importance of getting assistance directly to affected communities.
In an interview with the media earlier this year, Veo said the agreement was reached after IOM officials approached his office last week to discuss recovery support for homes damaged by the cyclone.
He said a total of 289 houses have been identified for assistance under three categories — completely damaged, major damage and minor damage.
“Fifty-six houses were listed under completely damaged houses, 100-plus houses were listed as major damage and another 100-plus house were listed under minor damaged houses,” Veo said.
He said IOM will provide building materials and financial assistance of SBD4,200 for each completely damaged house and major-damage housing project, while households classified as having minor damage will receive materials and SBD2,400.
Veo said the cash donation is to hire volunteer carpenters to build two bed-room standard houses for completely damaged houses, repair for major damage and minor damaged houses.
He said IOM personnel had spent more than a month on Simbo carrying out assessments to determine the scale of damage and develop an appropriate recovery plan.
“They spent one month in Simbo doing the assessment and this recovery effort is part of the assessment,” Veo said.
He said the assistance will not be limited to households, IOM also expected to support churches, schools and clinics that sustained damage during Cyclone Maila.
Veo said the provincial government is also working tirelessly to secure similar recovery support for affected communities in Ranongga, Vella La Vella, Rendova and the Shortland Islands.
He described the Simbo agreement as an important first step in the province’s wider recovery efforts.
Veo said the initiative demonstrated that the provincial government is commitment to supporting people affected by the cyclone.
“This is a first step, demonstrating that the Western Provincial Government is serious about its people who fell victim to Cyclone Maila,” he said.
Simbo was among the islands in Western Province badly affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila, with hundreds of houses damaged or destroyed.
The delivery of recovery materials is expected to support ongoing efforts by communities to rebuild homes and restore their livelihoods following the disaster.
[Western Province Premier Billy Veo: File Photo]
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Prime Minister Matthew Wale confirmed that the government’s flagship Universal Free Education Policy is fully on track to be launch early next year.
Speaking to local journalists at a press conference last week, the Prime Minister expressed high confidence in the plan, revealing that the Ministry of Education is now “very close to being well prepared” to handle the nationwide rollout.
The Prime Minister shared his positive impressions from a recent briefing with the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD).
He noted that officials have successfully worked through the complex planning and logistical steps needed for the program.
“It was a pleasant feeling this morning in the meeting. They have informed me about a number of things, and the costings are, I think, close to being accurate to enter into the budget cycle,” Wale said.
He said with the figures finalized; the government is officially incorporating the policy costs into the upcoming national budget.
“So, in terms of the budget process, we are in that situation now. We have the funds to be able to roll out from January. So free education will roll out,” Wale said.
Wale also said plans to call Parliament this December to pass the next annual budget and table important constitutional amendment.
He adds that a major centrepiece of the upcoming December budget will be the government’s free education initiative.
According to the Prime Minister, the policy is now fully ready to be formally integrated into the national budget.
[Photo: PM Wale speaking to local media during a press conference last week: Photo John Houanihau]
SINTA urges a 1:35 teacher-student ratio as Solomon Islands prepares to introduce free education in 2027. By Steven Kamoa The Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA) is calling for a teacher-student ratio of one teacher to 35 students as the Government prepares to introduce free education in 2027. Speaking at the 2026 World Teachers’ Day [...]
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BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Makira Ulawa Provincial government (MUPG), is developing a Minerals Accuracy Map by working closely with the Ministry of Mines and Energy and Rural Electrification, (MMERE) in collaboration with experts from Curtin University of Australia and Laoshan National Laboratory of Qingdao, China.
A statement from MUPG social media said the completion of this task is important as it is to have data to be able to distinguish the composition of various minerals in the Province, such as silver, zinc, nickel, gold, bauxite and other minerals.
It said the last mapping done in Makira was carried out by the British during pre-independence time, and the team is in the province to verify those findings and kick start the mineral mapping exercise.
The statement said samples of rocks specimens will be taken on selected rivers in the Province including the Warihito River, Rawo River, Magoha River, Hao river and Waihaoru River to formulate a Mineral analysis for these localities.
It said the success of this mission will then inform the extension of the same to other parts of the province, until the province is fully geologically mapped out.
A courtesy call was made by the geological and lab experts from MMERE and geological experts and researchers including Professor Zheng Xing Li of Curtin University and Chief Scientist of Laoshan National Laboratory of China.
The statement said the mineral data collections and analysis once completed will provide valuable information regarding the mineral potential of Makira Ulawa Province.
In the Solomon Islands, only Guadalcanal, Isabel and Western Province have completed their Mineral Accuracy Map.
Photo credit: MUPG
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BY TONY IROGA
TEACHERS across Guadalcanal Province and Honiara joined national leaders today at Nguvia Community High School in North East Guadalcanal to mark World Teachers’ Day.
This year’s national celebration was held under the theme: “Protecting and Advancing the Status of the Teaching Profession.”
Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Education and Human Resources Development, Stephen Kumi, praised educators for accepting one of the nation’s most vital responsibilities.
“Teaching is more than a job it is a high calling. Parents place their trust in our teachers every morning, not only to educate their children, but to keep them safe,” MP Kumi said.
Kumi highlighted major government initiatives aimed at improving conditions for educators, which were;
-Salary Restructure: Transitioning all teachers including Early Childhood Education (ECE) teachers and Technical and vocational education and training (TVET) instructors to the new teacher salary and classification structure.
-Housing and Leave: Plans under the 2025 SINTA Memorandum of Agreement to address teacher housing and annual leave arrangements by 2027.
-New Ministry: The establishment of the new Ministry of Higher Education, School Development, and Research alongside ongoing free education policies.
Kumi also spoke about providing teachers with the conditions that would allow them to work with dignity.
“A salary is only one part of protecting the profession. If we expect teachers to give their best, we must provide conditions that allow them to live and work with dignity,” Kumi said.
Addressing classroom standards, Kumi urged teachers to focus on student learning outcomes and continuous improvement.
“The true measure of our profession is what happens inside the classroom.
“A teacher is like a gardener. We must prepare the soil, water, protect, and wait for growth. When a child struggles, we must ask what we can do differently rather than giving up,” he said.
Closing his address, Kumi reminded stakeholders that education requires a collective effort, citing the local proverb: “One hand cannot tie a bundle.”
He called on government ministries, school leaders, parents, and communities to work together to support teachers and protect children.
“The greatest asset of the Solomon Islands is not under our soil or in our oceans—it is our people,” Kumi said.
“That development begins in the classroom.”
Photo: Supplied
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Solomon Islands Government plans teacher salary and workplace reforms from 2027 to improve conditions and education outcomes. By Steven Kamoa The Solomon Islands Government says it is working to improve teachers’ salaries and working conditions as part of wider education reforms. Speaking at the national World Teachers’ Day celebration at Nguvia Community High School, Minister [...]
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