by Georgina Maka’a The GREAT coalition is overhauling the country’s labour mobility operations to deploy 5,000 workers annually under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, following a record year that delivered an estimated $500 million boost to the economy. Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister Rick Houenipwela announced the...
The post Overhaul Underway to Send 5,000 Workers to Australia appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
by Georgina Maka’a Solomon Islands National University (SINU) intends to appeal a High Court ruling ordering the university to pay more than $1.47 million to its former librarian, Sri Lankan Dr Don Karunanayake. Karunanayake took SINU to court after his termination in February 2025 following an internal audit into library...
The post SINU Intends to Appeal $1.47M Wrongful Dismissal Court Ruling appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
作者:Georgina Maka’a
所罗门岛国立大学(SINU)计划对高等法院裁决提出上诉,该裁决要求该大学向其前图书管理员斯里兰卡籍的Dr Don Karunanayake支付超过147万美元的赔偿。Karunanayake在2025年2月因图书馆内部审计后被解雇,随后将SINU告上法庭......
此文的首发为《深入所罗门》.
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Auki, Malaita, Father John Adai, has urged the 332 graduating students of St Joseph’s Tenaru to remain rooted in faith, uphold discipline and strive for excellence as they prepare for the next stage of their lives.
Delivering the keynote address at the school’s 2026 Graduation and Prize-Giving Day, on Saturday, Fr Adai said the theme, “Rooted in Faith, Strive for Excellence,” reminded students of the importance of combining educational achievement with strong moral values and a meaningful relationship with God.
He said faith provided a foundation for overcoming life’s challenges, while the pursuit of excellence required commitment, integrity, compassion and a willingness to serve others.
“When you are rooted in faith, you can almost bear anything. You must trust in God while working towards their aspirations,” ,” Fr Adai encouraged graduands at St Joseph school.
He reminded the graduates that success was not measured solely by money, fame or social status, but also by peace of mind, meaningful relationships and pride in the people they became.
“Real success is building a life that you don’t constantly escape from,” he said.
Fr Adai urged students to embrace kindness, respect, honesty and loyalty, saying these values would help shape their character and guide their decisions throughout life.
He also reminded parents and teachers of their shared responsibility in providing children with physical, moral, spiritual, social and intellectual development.
Referring to the Catholic Church’s teaching on education, he said the purpose of education extended beyond academic results to forming responsible individuals who could contribute positively to society.
He encouraged parents and teachers to educate children with purpose, teaching them to value learning, choose their friends wisely, manage money responsibly, appreciate hard work and remain guided by their faith and personal values.
Fr Adai also raised concerns about declining student enthusiasm, discipline and commitment in schools, particularly in relation to excessive entertainment and the misuse of mobile phones.
He warned that poor use of technology and negative peer influence could distract students from their educational goals and undermine their opportunities for the future.
Citing the advice that education was about decision-making rather than entertainment, he challenged students to make choices that would benefit their future and enable them to serve their families, communities and country.
Addressing the graduating students, Fr Adai said their certificates marked the completion of one stage of their education but also the beginning of new responsibilities.
“You are counted upon to be a life-changer through your creativity and innovation,” he said.
He urged the graduates to use their time, opportunities and abilities wisely, reminding them that opportunities might not always come twice.
Fr Adai said academic qualifications alone were not enough to guarantee success, as life also required wisdom, emotional intelligence, creativity, practical skills and good character.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by parents and teachers in supporting the students’ educational journeys, saying their efforts included sleepless nights, anxieties and the challenges they endured out of love for the children.
He urged graduates to respect those sacrifices by making responsible decisions and applying the lessons and values they had gained throughout their education.
Fr Adai concluded by encouraging the students to remain faithful to the school’s theme and to live according to the values of justice, compassion and humility.
Quoting the biblical message in Micah 6:8, he reminded them of their responsibility to “act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with your God.”
He congratulated the graduating students and called on them to use their education and opportunities to make a positive difference in their families, communities and the wider Solomon Islands.
[An aerial wide view shows the packed hall of students and guests gathered for the annual graduation ceremony.]
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
St Joseph’s Secondary School has developed a three-year development plan for 2027 to 2029 to prepare for the continuation of the government’s free education policy and improve learning opportunities for students.
School Board Chairman Christopher Akosawa announced this during the school’s 2026 graduation and prize-giving ceremony on Saturday, welcoming the GREAT Coalition Government’s commitment to continue its free education policy in 2027 and beyond.
Mr Akosawa said the plan was developed through collaboration between the school board, education provider and school leadership, aligning the school’s priorities with national education goals.
He commended the government for prioritising education as a national investment and ensuring children have access to quality education regardless of their background.
“As a school community, we are committed to supporting the important policy direction identified by the government,” he said.
Mr Akosawa said the school development plan was guided by three key priorities: improving access to education, enhancing the quality of learning, and strengthening school management and governance.
On access, he said the school was committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where students have opportunities to enrol, attend and succeed in their education.
This would involve improving school infrastructure, expanding learning resources and addressing barriers that prevent students from accessing education.
He said improving the quality of learning would require stronger teaching approaches, teacher professional development, appropriate learning materials and the use of technology to support student achievement.
Mr Akosawa also highlighted the importance of effective leadership, financial management, accountability, community engagement and partnerships to ensure the school’s long-term sustainability.
He said the school looked forward to the positive impact of the government’s free education policy in increasing access, reducing the financial burden on families and improving learning opportunities for children.
He also welcomed ongoing discussions on curriculum reform, saying changes could better prepare students for future demands, strengthen learning outcomes and create greater opportunities for quality education.
Addressing the graduating Class of 2026, Mr Akosawa said graduation marked an important milestone as students closed one chapter of their education and prepared to begin another.
He encouraged graduates to remain grounded in faith, maintain strong character and continue striving for excellence as they pursued their future aspirations.
He reminded them that success should not be measured by academic achievement alone, but also by how they serve others, demonstrate integrity and contribute to their communities.
The school’s graduation theme was “Rooted in Faith, Strive for Excellence”.
Mr Akosawa said the school would continue working with the government, parents, guardians, the Church and the wider community to provide students with the knowledge, skills and values needed to become responsible citizens and future leaders of Solomon Islands.
[School Board Chairman Christopher Akosawa making his remarks during the graduation ceremony. Photo: John Houanihau.]
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Christian Fellowship Church (CFC) has clarified that it has no objection to the Wesley United Church conducting the funeral service of the late Deputy Speaker of Parliament, David Lani Gina.
According to CFC statement issued on October 23, CFC rejected claims made during the National Parliament livestream on October 22 that its church protocols did not allow the Wesley United Church to conduct the funeral service.
The statement was issued by J D Tausinga on behalf of the Christian Fellowship Church on October 23, 2026.
The church said the commentary had incorrectly attributed the objection to CFC and stressed that the reported position did not represent its official stance.
CFC reaffirmed its commitment to Christian unity, brotherhood and cooperation among different denominations, saying it recognised the common faith shared by believers in Jesus Christ.
The church explained that when its own pastoral representatives are unavailable, it allows another Christian denomination to conduct the funeral service of one of its members.
It therefore confirmed that it had no objection to the Wesley United Church conducting the funeral service for late Gina.
Late Gina, who represented the South New Georgia and Rendova/Tetepari Constituency, passed away on October 15. His body was laid in state at the National Parliament Chamber on October 22, allowing members of the public to pay their respects and offer tributes to the late parliamentary leader.
CFC also confirmed that it has pastoral representation in Honiara, administered by its pastors under the oversight of the church minister, who resides at Kinamara village in Western Province.
The statement also addressed confusion surrounding the identity of CFC Group A, which the church described as a breakaway faction.
CFC said it was important to distinguish the original Christian Fellowship Church from the group identifying itself as CFC Group A to prevent further misunderstanding among members of the public.
The church was founded in 1960 by the late Silas Eto, who was also known by his spiritual name, Holy Mama.
CFC maintained that it had no separate groups or factions operating under its identity and called on those identifying as Group A to adopt a distinct church name that reflected their own identity, beliefs and practices.
According to the statement, the distinction would help prevent the actions and decisions of the breakaway faction from affecting the reputation of the original church.
CFC also expressed concern about what it described as differences between Group A’s practices and the beliefs and worship traditions established by its founder.
The church claimed that Group A had not maintained regular church services for approximately 15 years, with Sundays instead being used for fundraising activities.
In contrast, CFC said it continued to conduct church services every Sunday, maintaining the faith, worship and spiritual practices established by its founder in 1960.
The church stressed that preserving its name and spiritual heritage was important, particularly in avoiding confusion over statements or decisions attributed to it.
CFC reiterated that its position on Gina’s funeral was clear and that it respected the relationship shared among Christian denominations.
It said the objection reported during the Parliament livestream should not be taken as the official position of the Christian Fellowship Church.
The clarification comes as Gina’s family, parliamentary colleagues, relatives and constituents mourn his passing.
CFC extended its sincere condolences to the bereaved family and the people Gina represented, wishing them comfort and strength during this difficult time.
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Government is taking serious measures to address climate change through investments in renewable energy aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
Minister of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification Derrick R. Manuari said the Munda Solar Hybrid Power Plant is part of the Government’s efforts to mitigate climate change and promote low-carbon development.
He said the country’s investments in renewable energy are centralised to its commitments under the Paris Agreement, including the gradual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Manuari said every unit of electricity generated from sunlight that replaces power produced by diesel generators presents an opportunity to reduce fossil fuel consumption and associated carbon emissions.
He explained that the Munda project could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 1,000 to 1,300 tonnes annually by replacing diesel-generated electricity with solar power, depending on solar generation, system performance and the efficiency of the diesel generators displaced.
Manuari said the project will potentially avoid between 20,000 and 26,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, subject to actual operating conditions and the future electricity generation mix over 20 years.
“These are indicative estimates, not yet verified operational results. Nevertheless, they demonstrate the meaningful contribution that even a single provincial renewable energy project can make to our national climate objectives,” he said.
Manuari said the project contributed directly to the country’s efforts to address climate change while supporting the transition towards cleaner energy.
He noted that Solomon Islands, like other Small Island Developing States, contributed only a very small proportion of global greenhouse gas emissions but remained among the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
“These impacts include rising sea levels, coastal erosion, changing rainfall patterns, extreme weather events and disruptions to people’s livelihoods,” Manuari said.
He said the country’s response to climate change must therefore combine adaptation measures with practical efforts to reduce emissions.
Manuari reiterated that the Munda Solar Hybrid Power Plant represents one such investment, using renewable energy to reduce reliance on diesel-generated electricity while supporting the country’s broader climate commitments.
The project is expected to contribute to improved energy security in Western Province while demonstrating how renewable energy investments can support both national development and climate change mitigation.
作者:本·比卢阿
吉佐
政府正在通过对可再生能源的投资采取严肃措施来应对气候变化,旨在减少温室气体排放和对化石燃料的依赖。
矿业、能源和农村电气化部长德里克·R·马努阿里(Derrick R. Manuari)表示,蒙达太阳能混合电厂(Munda Solar Hybrid Power Plant)是政府减缓气候变化和促进低碳发展的努力的一部分。
他说,该国在可再生能源方面的投资是其在《巴黎协定》下的承诺的核心,包括通过国家自主贡献(NDCs)逐步减少温室气体排放。
马努阿里表示,每一单位由阳光产生的电力替代柴油发电机产生的电力,都是减少化石燃料消费和相关碳排放的机会。
他解释说,蒙达项目每年可以减少约1000到1300吨的二氧化碳排放,具体取决于太阳能发电、系统性能和被替代的柴油发电机的效率。
马努阿里表示,该项目在20年内可能避免20000到26000吨的二氧化碳排放,具体取决于实际操作条件和未来的电力发电组合。
“这些是指示性估算,尚未经过验证的操作结果。尽管如此,它们展示了即使是一个省级可再生能源项目对我们国家气候目标的有意义贡献,”他说。
马努阿里表示,该项目直接支持国家应对气候变化的努力,同时支持向更清洁能源的过渡。
他指出,所罗门群岛与其他小岛屿发展中国家一样,仅占全球温室气体排放的极小比例,但仍然是最容易受到气候变化影响的国家之一。
“这些影响包括海平面上升、海岸侵蚀、降雨模式变化、极端天气事件和对人们生计的干扰,”马努阿里说。
因此,他表示,该国应对气候变化的措施必须结合适应措施与减少排放的实际努力。
马努阿里重申,蒙达太阳能混合电厂代表了这样一种投资,利用可再生能源减少对柴油发电电力的依赖,同时支持国家更广泛的气候承诺。
该项目预计将有助于改善西部省的能源安全,同时展示可再生能源投资如何支持国家发展和气候变化减缓。
Island SunEnvironment & Climate环境气候·2026-10-25Original ↗原文 ↗
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
WOMEN of Zutapati in North Vella La Vella, Western Province, have received a 15-horsepower outboard motor from their Ward Member, Freedom Tozaka, to help address transportation challenges and support their economic activities.
Tozaka and his Ward Development Committee handed over the engine to the community women’s group on Friday.
In his speech, Tozaka said the assistance aimed to ease transportation difficulties faced by women and support their small economic activities.
He said the outboard motor would also assist women in participating in church and school programmes and improving their overall livelihoods.
For decades, women and children from Zutapati have relied on wooden paddle canoes to travel approximately four miles to Jones Adventist College (JAC).
The journey takes between two and three hours each way and is often disrupted by rough seas and bad weather.
Women travelling to the college’s 4:00 PM market have had to leave early in the morning and sometimes paddle home in darkness, arriving between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
Association leader Edence Richard said reliable transportation is vital for women to generate income to meet household expenses and pay school fees.
She highlighted the importance of the market to families, including meeting education costs such as her daughter’s tuition at Solomon Islands National University.
While welcoming the provision of the outboard motor, Tozaka said the women still lacked a suitable boat to use with the engine.
He appealed to donors and good Samaritans to assist the group with a boat, saying this would help the women make full use of the engine and improve their transportation access.
The assistance is expected to help the women reduce the challenges associated with long-distance paddling and create better opportunities for income-generating activities and community participation.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services says a breast-surgery specialist deployed by the 5th China Medical Team is building a breast-care unit at the National Referral Hospital and training local doctors.
Practitioners from Solomon Islands and five other Pacific countries and territories joined a three-day learning exchange workshop at the Mudrenicagi Organic Learning Farm in Wainunu, Bua, Fiji.
Solomon Islands delegates visit Fiji’s Drawa Forest Project to learn about Indigenous-led conservation and community carbon trading. Solomon Island Government delegates from MECDM’s Climate Change Division and the Green Climate Fund spent a day visiting the well-known Drawa Forest Project on the island of Vanua Levu as part of the in-country gathering in Fiji earlier [...]
The post Solomon Island Government visits successful Fiji carbon project as part of Pre-COP 31 appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
THE Honiara Netball Association (HNA) has confirmed the final standings of its 2026 Proper League, with Sunrise and Suvania 2 finishing top of the Super and A divisions respectively, while Manawai and Green Berets 3 claimed the B and C division championship titles.
The final rankings cover all four divisions, bringing the league season to a close after a campaign featuring competitive league fixtures and decisive knockout finals.
In its official social media announcement, HNA congratulated participating teams for their efforts throughout the season, with special recognition for the top four sides in each division.
In the Super Division, Sunrise finished first ahead of Suvania 1, while SOSA placed third and Phoenix 1 fourth.
Suvania 2 topped the A Division standing, followed by West Rennell in second, Marist Tesa 1 in third and Lakers in fourth.
Manawai provided one of the season’s standout finals performances in the B Division, defeating Southerns 2 by 14–11 in the grand final despite finishing fourth in the regular-season standings. Manawai had earlier beaten SEWA 2, the regular-season leaders, 17–14 in the semi-final.
The C Division final also delivered a close contest, with Green Berets 3 edging Tehila 18–17 to secure the championship. Southerns 3 claimed third place after defeating Diesel 18–15 in the playoff.
HNA’s confirmation recognises the final positions of clubs across the four divisions and concludes the 2026 Proper League campaign.
Photo credit: HNA
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Indonesia’s contribution continues to serve athletes and communities through Friendship Hall
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Friendship Hall remains an important part of Solomon Islands’ sporting landscape, continuing to host competitions and community activities three years after serving as one of the key venues for the 2023 Pacific Games.
The National Sports Council (NSC) highlighted the facility’s ongoing importance during a visit by an Indonesian delegation to Sport City in Honiara on Monday, acknowledging Indonesia’s contribution to the development of the country’s indoor sporting infrastructure.
The delegation was led by Indonesian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Okto Dorinus Manik, and welcomed by NSC Board Chairman Joe Sika.
In his welcome address, Sika expressed appreciation to the Indonesian Government and people for providing the facility as a gift to the people of Solomon Islands.
“The Friendship Hall is the most modern and the biggest indoor facility in our country. Its name says what it stands for. It is a place that brings people together, and in a short time it has proven exactly that,” Sika said.
The facility hosted several indoor sporting competitions during the 2023 Pacific Games, including boxing, basketball and netball, demonstrating its capacity to accommodate major sporting events.
Since then, Friendship Hall has continued to provide a venue for sporting tournaments and activities, including the Melanesian Cup basketball tournament and the weekly futsal league.
Its use has also extended beyond sport, with the facility accommodating educational ceremonies, religious gatherings and other major community events.
The NSC’s recognition of Indonesia’s contribution was further highlighted by an appreciation sign displayed at the hall bearing the words “Terima Kasih Indonesia”, meaning “Thank You, Indonesia”.
The sign acknowledges the Indonesian Government and people for their support in providing the facility to Solomon Islands.
Friendship Hall was funded by the Indonesian Government and constructed by Indonesian state-owned company PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA). It was handed over to the Solomon Islands Government in 2022 and officially opened in November that year ahead of the Pacific Games.
The NSC manages the facility on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government.
Photo credit: NSC
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BY LORETTA B MANELE
Indonesia’s hospital ship, KRI dr. WAHIDIN SUDIROHUSODO-911 navy vessel successfully carried out its humanitarian mission in Honiara earlier this week.
Speaking to Island Sun on Wednesday evening, October 21 onboard during a diplomatic reception, Commanding Officer, Colonel Benedictus Hery Murwanto said Honiara is their third port of call after having visited Vanuatu and Fiji.
“Solomon Islands is our third port of call. I am so pleased to be here in Honiara,” said Colonel Hery Murwanto.
He said while in Honiara, they had a great opportunity to conduct their humanitarian mission.
These activities included free provision of medical services onboard, outreach to communities and sport engagement.
Colonel Hery Murwanto said in a space of three days, they received more than 600 residents of Honiara who came onboard to receive medical assistance.
“We have six medical teams with 16 doctors and 9 specialists, so we are a mobile hospital,” he said.
They also visited White River Community High School and met with the students there and helped with the renovation of their basketball yard.
Another visit taken was to communities of the Anglican church where they handed over some materials like water tanks and bags of cement.
Colonel Hery Murwanto mentioned that they also visited the muslim community in Honiara.
He said they also played futsal with the futsal team and had students take a tour around in the ship.
The Commanding Officer said he hopes that the cooperation between Indonesia and Solomon Islands can be enhanced in the future.
“I think these are really good activities to strengthen the relationship between our people and people of Solomon Islands.
“I hope that in the future, we can enhance our cooperation in every aspect,” he said.
The KRI dr. WAHIDIN SUDIROHUSODO-911 hospital ship has a total of 308 members and 156 crew and medical team.
Colonel Hery Murwanto said they also have university students onboard from different universities in Indonesia.
The ship arrived in Honiara port on October 18 and departed for Papua New Guinea on Thursday, October 22.
Photo credit: Loretta B Manele
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作者:LORETTA B MANELE
印度尼西亚的医院船KRI dr. WAHIDIN SUDIROHUSODO-911海军舰艇在本周早些时候成功地在霍尼亚拉执行了人道主义使命。
在10月21日的外交招待会上,指挥官本尼迪克图斯·赫里·穆尔万托(Colonel Benedictus Hery Murwanto)在船上对《岛屿太阳》表示,霍尼亚拉是他们在访问瓦努阿图和斐济后的第三个停靠港。
“所罗门群岛是我们的第三个停靠港。我很高兴来到霍尼亚拉,”赫里·穆尔万托上校说。
他说,在霍尼亚拉期间,他们有很好的机会开展人道主义使命。
这些活动包括在船上提供免费的医疗服务、社区外展和体育参与。
赫里·穆尔万托上校表示,在三天的时间里,他们接待了超过600名霍尼亚拉居民前来接受医疗帮助。
“我们有六个医疗团队,16名医生和9名专家,所以我们是一个流动医院,”他说。
他们还访问了白河社区高中,与那里的学生见面,并帮助修缮他们的篮球场。
另一次访问是到圣公会社区,向他们交付了一些材料,如水箱和水泥袋。
赫里·穆尔万托上校提到,他们还访问了霍尼亚拉的穆斯林社区。
他说,他们还与五人制足球队进行了比赛,并让学生们在船上参观。
指挥官表示,他希望印度尼西亚与所罗门群岛之间的合作在未来能够得到加强。
“我认为这些活动确实有助于加强我们人民与所罗门群岛人民之间的关系。
“我希望在未来,我们能够在各个方面增强合作,”他说。
KRI dr. WAHIDIN SUDIROHUSODO-911医院船共有308名成员和156名船员及医疗团队。
赫里·穆尔万托上校表示,他们还在船上有来自印度尼西亚不同大学的大学生。
该船于10月18日抵达霍尼亚拉港,并于10月22日星期四出发前往巴布亚新几内亚。
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
The WESTERN Provincial Government has acknowledged the National Government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for their support towards the Munda Solar Hybrid Power Plant.
Deputy Premier Brian Lotikena said Western Province is privileged to host such an important investment, which will strengthen energy security and support sustainable development.
He said the solar hybrid power system will help reduce the province’s dependence on expensive electricity and improve the reliability of power supply.
“For too long we have depended entirely on expensive electricity. When power is disrupted and fuel prices rise, power supply suffers,” Lotikena said.
He said the hybrid system will help lower electricity production costs, ease the burden on families and small businesses, and contribute to Solomon Islands’ efforts to address climate change.
Lotikena said the Western Provincial Government, through its long-term development plan, will continue to promote and encourage investment in the energy sector.
He said the provincial government remains committed to support cleaner and more reliable electricity for households, businesses, schools and public services in Munda.
“It is an important transition of the province towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future,” Lotikena said.
He also acknowledged Solomon Power and its partners for their commitment and perseverance in completing the project.
“Your determination and perseverance have resulted in the successful commissioning of a fully operational system, which is now helping to power Munda with clean and sustainable energy,” Lotikena said.
However, he stressed the importance of effective operation and maintenance to ensure the facility continues to deliver long-term benefits to the community.
Lotikena called for technical capacity development and greater community support to protect the investment.
He encouraged the people of Munda to take pride in the facility and work together to safeguard the solar hybrid power plant as an important community asset.
Lotikena said continued cooperation among government, Solomon Power, development partners and local communities will be essential to sustain the benefits of the project.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE newly commissioned USD15.2 million Munda Solar Hybrid Power Plant is the second solar facility to be commissioned under the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-supported Solar Power Development Project.
ADB Principal Energy Specialist Roka Sanda speaking during the commissioning ceremony this week in Munda said the Munda facility is part of a broader project delivering solar power facilities across five provincial centres in Solomon Islands.
It is understood that the first solar plant commissioned was in Tulagi, Central province a month earlier, leaving three provincial centres yet to be commissioned.
Sanda said ADB supported the Solomon Islands Government with two grants totalling USD8.44 million, comprising USD2.24 million from the ADB’s Asian Development Fund and USD6.2 million from the Climate Investment Funds.
He said Munda has the highest generation capacity under the project, with approximately 1,000 kilowatts of solar power generation capacity and a battery energy storage system capable of storing 3,978 kilowatt-hours of electricity.
Sanda said the system is connected to existing electricity network to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and provide cleaner and more reliable electricity to households, businesses, schools, hospitals and other public services.
He said the successful commissioning of the facility demonstrates what can be achieved when communities, government agencies, utilities and development partners work together towards a shared vision.
Sanda said the benefits of the investment extend beyond the infrastructure, as reliable electricity is essential for economic growth, education, healthcare, communications and improved living standards.
“This solar hybrid system will reduce reliance on imported diesel fuel, improve energy security, increase the share of renewable energy in Munda-Noro’s electricity supply, support local businesses and economic activities, and contribute to a cleaner environment for future generations,” he said.
Sanda said ADB believes access to sustainable energy is fundamental to improve the quality of life and create opportunities for communities throughout Solomon Islands.
He said the project had faced significant challenges, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, difficulties mobilising contractors to project sites, technical issues involving battery systems and logistical challenges in transporting equipment to remote locations.
Sanda said Solomon Power and its partners remained committed to finding solutions, resulting in a fully operational system now serving the Munda-Noro communities despite these difficulties.
He said the long-term success of the investment will depend on effective operation and maintenance, continued technical capacity development and community support.
Sanda welcomed the ongoing solar operation and maintenance training activities undertaken by Solomon Power to strengthen its ability to operate and manage the systems sustainably.
He encouraged communities to take pride in the facility and work together to protect the infrastructure as an important community asset.
“Today, we celebrate more than the commissioning of a solar power plant. We celebrate partnership, resilience, innovation, and a shared commitment to a sustainable future,” Sanda said.
He acknowledged the Solomon Islands Government, Solomon Power, the Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE), the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, project partners, landowners and community members for their contributions to the project.
Sanda said the investment marks an important step towards a cleaner, more reliable and sustainable energy future for Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
SASAMUNGA Community High School has officially opened a new staffroom equipped with solar power and Starlink internet connectivity, marking another milestone in the school’s efforts to improve education.
The new facility is expected to support teachers and school administration in carrying out their responsibilities and at the same time, to improve access to electricity and internet services.
Chairman of Sasamunga CHS, Gideon Panisaga, acknowledged Member of Parliament for South Choiseul, Tozen Leokana, for supporting the construction of the staffroom.
Panisaga said the South Choiseul Constituency Office had also supported the school through a solar power project, demonstrating its commitment to improving the school’s facilities.
He said the support will benefit not only the school but also its students and the wider community, both now and in the future.
Panisaga also acknowledged the communities, parents and guardians who had contributed to the school’s development aspirations.
“On behalf of the school administration, staff, families, elders, men, women, youths and children, I would like to foremost thank the parents and guardians of our students travelling from other wards, including North West Choiseul (Tepazaka) and the far south.
“To Katupika Ward, thank you all for your contributions in supporting our school and the village of Sasamunga,” he said.
Panisaga said the school is humbled by the contributions made by parents and guardians to support their children attending Sasamunga Community High School.
He said the collective support demonstrates the importance of community participation to strengthen education and advance the school’s development goals.
The new staffroom represents an important addition to the school’s facilities as Sasamunga CHS continues its efforts to provide a better learning and working environment for students and teachers.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
SASAMUNGA Community High School held its graduation ceremony on Thursday, celebrating students’ achievements and resilience following the destruction caused by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
Themed “Unlocking Potential Through Education”, the ceremony featured a colourful parade by students who walked beneath the ruins of school buildings damaged by the cyclone.
The emotional moment brought tears to the eyes of parents and guardians as they watched their children walk towards the stage to receive their certificates and prizes.
The ceremony was attended by the Member of Parliament for South Choiseul Constituency, Tozen Leokana, who was the guest of honour.
(Left to right) Sasamunga CHS Board Chairperson Gideon Panisaga, Graduation Committee Chair Malachi Kisini, MP Tozen Leokana, Schoo Principal Joyce Papaku and Babatana MPA Florence Vasaro at the graduation ceremony, photo credit- Ben Bilua.
Delivering the keynote address, Leokana encouraged the graduates to remain determined, persevere through challenges and never give up on their dreams.
Year 9 Dux student Ivy Blessma, photo credit- Ben Bilua.
Year 11 Dux Peter Claver, photo credit- Ben Bilua.
He said every child has a God-given potential and that continued perseverance will help them discover and develop their abilities.
Leokana reminded the graduates that the ceremony does not mark the end of their academic journey but rather the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
He encouraged them to carry the lessons they had learned forward as they pursue further education and other opportunities.
In his speech, Superintendent Minister Reverend Hermes Takakana reminded students that success is not measured by academic achievements alone but also by a person’s character.
He encouraged students to fear God, saying faith and wisdom are important in discovering and developing their potential in different areas of life.
“Fear the Lord, because fearing the Lord is the first stage of wisdom for unlocking our knowledge,” Takakana said.
The principal of Sasamunga Community High School, Joyce Papaku also urged parents and guardians to continue supporting and guiding their children throughout their education.
“If we continue to support and guide our children, then potentially in the near future our kids will acquire greater knowledge,” she said.
The graduation was a significant occasion for the school community, highlighting the importance of education, family support and determination as Sasamunga continues to recover from the impact of Cyclone Maila.
Photo credit: Ben Bilua
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by Georgina Maka’a A retired Papua New Guinea judge has been appointed to lead the tribunal investigating allegations against suspended Police Commissioner Ian Vaevaso. Justice Ellenas Vitata Batari, a former judge of the National and Supreme Courts of Justice of Papua New Guinea, will chair the panel. He will be...
The post Retired PNG Judge Appointed to Head Vaevaso Tribunal appeared first on In-depth Solomons .
BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
The Catholic Bishop of Auki Diocese, Bishop Jacob Aba SM challenged Auki High School graduates to remain disciplined and stay connected to God.
Speaking at the school’s graduation ceremony on Thursday, under the theme “Discipline, Commitment and Excellence”, he said discipline must be connected to God to give life meaning and purpose.
He said that without a connection with God, life will become meaningless and lack value and purpose.
The bishop urged the graduates to remain disciplined and stay connected to God if they wanted to succeed in life.
“I believe and hope that we all are born Christians. Christian life is life of discipline, commitment and excellence,” he said.
Bishop Aba also encouraged the students not to focus solely on securing employment after completing their education, but to also prioritise personal growth and improvement.
“If there is improvement in your life, then employment is easy for you and you do it with discipline, commitment and excellence,” he said.
Bishop Aba urged parents to support and guide their children to practise discipline, commitment and excellence throughout their education.
He said students’ attitudes and behaviour at school could reflect what they learned from their parents at home.
“Any careless attitudes and behaviours that is showed by the students is what they learned from the parents at home,” he said.
Bishop Aba reminded parents that they are the foundation of the family and must demonstrate discipline, commitment and excellence in their homes to set a positive example for their children.
Photo credit: Rodrick Desuri
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作者:罗德里克·德苏里
奥基
奥基教区的天主教主教雅各布·阿巴(Bishop Jacob Aba SM)在周四的奥基高中毕业典礼上挑战毕业生保持纪律,并与上帝保持联系。
在以“纪律、承诺和卓越”为主题的典礼上,他表示,纪律必须与上帝相连,才能赋予生活意义和目的。
他说,没有与上帝的联系,生活将变得毫无意义,缺乏价值和目的。
主教敦促毕业生保持纪律,与上帝保持联系,如果他们想在生活中取得成功。
“我相信并希望我们都是基督徒。基督徒的生活是纪律、承诺和卓越的生活,”他说。
阿巴主教还鼓励学生们不要仅仅关注完成教育后获得就业,还要优先考虑个人成长和提升。
“如果你的生活有所改善,那么就业对你来说就容易了,你会以纪律、承诺和卓越来完成它,”他说。
阿巴主教呼吁家长支持和引导孩子在整个教育过程中践行纪律、承诺和卓越。
他说,学生在学校的态度和行为可以反映他们在家中从父母那里学到的东西。
“学生表现出的任何粗心态度和行为都是他们在家中从父母那里学到的,”他说。
阿巴主教提醒家长,他们是家庭的基础,必须在家庭中展示纪律、承诺和卓越,以为孩子树立积极的榜样。
照片来源:罗德里克·德苏里
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Rising fuel prices are increasing costs for Solomon Islands businesses in fisheries, transport, shipping, manufacturing and power. By Margret Nuake From the boats that connect our islands to the vehicles that deliver goods and the generators that help keep businesses running, fuel plays a central role in everyday life in Solomon Islands. When fuel prices [...]
The post When Fuel Prices Rise, the Cost Reaches Every Corner of Solomon Islands appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
by Charley Piringi The Solomon Islands and Australia have officially teamed up to improve the country’s earthquake tracking and mining oversight with its Geoscience twinning partnership program. This new twinning partnership focuses on strengthening earthquake monitoring and alert systems, and laboratory analytical capabilities to improve mining sector governance and...
The post Solomons and Australia Team Up to Boost Earthquake Tracking and Mining Checks appeared first on In-depth Solomons .