BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) proudly presented the final two awards to their rightful recipients during YECSI’s Breakfast with Sponsors this month.

Apunepara Haamwaora Natural Resource Association (AHNRA) was the recipient of the MAL Provincial Entrepreneur of the Year Award sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture & Livestock (MAL).

Meanwhile, Otin Tai Company in Wagina in Choiseul Province was the recipient of the MCT Provincial Entrepreneur of the Year Award sponsored by the Ministry of Culture & Tourism (MCT).

Both Associations received their well-deserved recognition in front of their sponsors, partners and supporters.

AHNRA is a community-based organisation from South Malaita, working to protect, utilise and empower local natural resource groups.

Their commitment to sustainable development and community impact earned them this year’s provincial honour.

Otin Tai Company stands as a true pride of Wagina, where their diverse operations include seaweed farming, homestay accommodation, a general store, fuel depot, kava bar, engine repair services, sea-taxi transport and conference space with internet connectivity.

Otin Tai Company is one of the 16 YECSI transition members to the formal space.

Their drive, innovation and service to their community have made them a leading provincial enterprise in the Solomon Islands.

YECSI congratulates AHNRA and Otin Tai Company for their outstanding contributions.

Photo: Supplied

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BY NED GAGAHE

THE Solomon Islands National University (SINU) is positioning itself to become a financially sustainable and “bankable” institution, with plans to develop a university-owned housing estate and commercial projects through partnerships with the private sector.

In his article “The State of Our University”, Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau said SINU has made major progress in reforming its governance and financial systems, enabling the university to confidently pursue public–private partnerships for the first time in history.

“For SINU to truly serve future generations, we must move beyond dependence on government funding alone.

“Our goal is to become a well-managed, creditworthy institution that can attract investment and generate its own income to support education,” Professor Aqorau said.

A key milestone in this shift has been the University Council’s approval of a new Public–Private Partnership (PPP) policy, which provides a clear framework to engage investors, banks, and development partners.

Under this policy, SINU has begun discussions with institutions such as the National Provident Fund (NPF), BRED Bank, and other private sector entities to explore co-investment opportunities.

Among the projects being considered are; a SINU housing estate, expanded student accommodation, and commercial facilities on university land.

SINU holds significant land assets in Honiara and other provinces, which Professor Aqorau said were underutilised for many years due to weak governance and financial controls.

“That opportunity cost was enormous.

“Today, because our governance is stronger and our finances are being brought up to standard, we can finally unlock the value of these assets in a way that benefits students, staff, and the nation,” he said.

The university has also made progress in securing and formalising its land holdings across Guadalcanal, Malaita, Western Province, and other regions, with plans to expand campuses beyond Honiara.

A proposed fourth campus in Malaita, at Aligegeo, is among the developments currently being pursued in collaboration with government authorities.

According to Professor Aqorau, revenue generated from commercial developments will be reinvested directly into the university to fund improved teaching facilities, internet connectivity, laboratories, libraries, and student support services.

“Financial sustainability is not about profit for its own sake.

“It is about ensuring we can provide quality education, better facilities, and more opportunities for Solomon Islanders, now and into the future,” he said.

The growing interest from banks and investors reflects increasing confidence in SINU’s management following reforms that have seen financial accounts brought up to date, new oversight systems introduced, and council committees strengthened.

As SINU continues its transformation, the Vice-Chancellor said the move towards becoming a “bankable” university marks a critical milestone in building a resilient national institution capable of supporting the country’s long-term development.

“Our land, our people, and our partnerships are strategic assets. Used wisely, they will help SINU stand on its own feet and better serve the Solomon Islands for generations to come,” Professor Aqorau said.

Photo: Supplied

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BY BEN BILUA
Gizo

THE Member of Parliament for Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency, Jimson Tanangada, says the road to tangible development and sustained economic growth depends largely on clear constituency policies and strategic planning.

Speaking to the media during his recent visit to the constituency, Tanangada said Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency (GKC) has endorsed and is now implementing key development agendas guided by its policy and strategic framework.

He said the policy focuses on a range of sectors, with funding streamlined from different sources to support the constituency’s economic development aspirations.

“As we all know, most constituencies depend heavily on the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and other government funding to facilitate projects.

“We see gaps within that approach, so we established our own plan now called the Gizo/Kolombangara Constituency Flagship Project,” Tanangada said.

He said the constituency’s flagship project has been finalised, with some projects already distributed to communities across the constituency.

Tanangada explained that the GKC Flagship Projects are people-centred, meaning project ideas are identified by communities themselves, while the constituency office facilitates funding and implementation.

“Our vision is to deliver projects that people in rural areas want, and by doing so, the turnover will be sustainable,” he said.

Tanangada said the constituency office will seek additional funding opportunities to support viable project proposals.

He said the CDF support will prioritise projects aligned with national government priorities.

“For example, the CDF will focus on value-adding projects, improving logistics, and other infrastructure developments, while the Flagship Project focuses more on small-scale fisheries, agriculture, and other economic activities.

“Our vision is to balance infrastructure development with economic activities. We believe that balancing these two components will drive the local economy forward while creating more job opportunities,” Tanangada said.

He said the establishment of constituency offices at Kolombangara, Gizo, and Honiara is part of a broader mission to bring services closer to the people.

Tanangada said the offices will also strengthen constituency administration, coordination, and governance to ensure effective service delivery.

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The outgoing Premier of Rennell and Bellona province, Derek Pongi (MPA), has expressed his deep gratitude and honor in serving the people of the province during his tenure.

Pongi made the statement on his Facebook page after losing a no-confidence vote against his government on Monday, December 29, 2025.

The motion was tabled at the Renbel provincial chamber in Tigoa, Rennell, where the non-executive side won with a majority of 6 votes out of the 10-seat assembly.

In his statement, Pongi thanked the people of Rennell and Bellona for their unwavering support throughout his leadership.

“It has been an honor to serve the good people of Rennell and Bellona for the past 17 months as premier,” Pongi wrote.

He also acknowledged the support of his fellow MPAs and appreciates their loyalty to him throughout his time in office up until his defeat.

“My sincere gratitude goes to the MPAs who stood with me till the end. I would also like to thank my people from Lughu Ward 3, as well as those from other parts of Renbel, other provinces, and abroad for their continuous support,” he added.

In Pongi is looking forward for the nomination of a new premier.

This paper understands that the official swearing-in of the new executive and portfolio holders is expected to take place today.

Following that, details of the new executive line-up will be announced.

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Maintenance work on four wooden bridges along South Road, Malaita Province, commenced during this festive season by Trades Transformation Company (TTC). 

The completion of the four bridges will enhance connectivity for the South Road users and the agriculture sector in the province. 

In an interview with the Island Sun yesterday, the Ministry of Infrastructure’s Communication Officer, Teddy Kafo, confirmed the commencement of bridge maintenance. 

He said that next year, 2026, the maintenance of the bridges will be fully operational. 

“By early next year, the maintenance of the four wooden bridges along South Road will be in full swing.

“During this festive period, the Trades Transformation Company (TTC) is now slowly commencing their maintenance upgrades,” he said.

“Currently, the TTC has started with the Maoro wooden bridge, and after that, they will move to the remaining three wooden bridges along the road to ensure the safety of passing vehicles,” he added. 

In the meantime, Kafo urges road users, especially the drivers on the South Road, to continue using wet crossings during the maintenance period and to follow the road signage installed. 

He also called on villagers to respect the workers on the bridges and support them with necessary needs. 

“Yes, I urge road users to continue using wet crossings during these bridge repairs. I also ask drivers to follow the signage installed.

“And also, villagers, we must respect the workers on site and give them the necessary support as they fix our bridges, which will enhance connectivity for our people along South Road,” he said. 

The bridge construction is being done under the Australian-funded National Transport Fund (NTF).

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Malaita Provincial Police appreciates the people of Auki for being on their best behaviour during Christmas Eve and calls on them to do the same during countdown celebrations for the new year 2026.

Appreciation has been sent out to community leaders, parents, and chiefs for working together with the police. 

Malaita Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Michael Ramosaea, also reminds the people of Auki to uphold this same behavior during the New Year countdown celebrations that will take place on Wednesday night, December 31, 2025. 

He said this is to avoid unwanted social activities such as disturbances with loud music, fighting, and acts of violence in the communities. 

“I want to remind my good people that while appreciation has been sent out to you for behaving during Christmas Eve, I also appeal for you to continue the same behavior during the New Year.

“It is a time of enjoyment and happiness, but celebrations must be done with respect for others, and we should celebrate in a peaceful manner,” he said.

Superintendent Ramosaea also appeals to community leaders, church elders, chiefs, and parents to take good care of their children during the New Year celebrations.

He said the police will continue their operations to ensure people are enjoying themselves safely at home.

“I call on my good community leaders, church elders, chiefs, and especially parents to look after their children during this New Year’s celebration.

“This is the time that our young people will go out and want to enjoy themselves with their friends.

“Be mindful that the police will continue to conduct operations within our town and communities,” he said.

Superintendent Ramosaea stressed that the police will be alert to arrest anyone causing disturbances or incidents during the New Year celebration.

He also wishes everyone in Malaita Province a joyful New Year 2026.

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BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The Pacific Crown Hotel (PCH) Canoe bar is set to host IGNITE 2026 New Year’s Eve.

The New Year’s Countdown at PCH will feature local legend Sean Rii, alongside international artists DJ Noiz, Bina Butta, and Kenyon Brown.

Set for Wednesday 31^st 2025, the supporting artists for the night are Joe Briz, Arak & Evin Rush, Colleagues Band, DJ Tua and many more.

The event, which is set to start at 5 pm on Wednesday, 31^st 2025, up until 5 am on Thursday, 1^st January 2026, will involve live music entertainment with fireworks at Midnight.

The general ticket for the countdown event is $250, while VIP is $500.

The night’s vibe is anticipated to be loud, fun, and exactly how New Year’s should feel.

The organisers call on fans to grab a ticket now to welcome 2026 in style.

Photo: Supplied

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