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Prosecutor to amend the second charge for clarity in the illegal gold dealing case

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Honiara Central Magistrate Court has further adjourned a criminal case involving a foreigner accused of illegal gold trading after the defendant told his interpreter in court that he did not understand the particulars of his charge as read out to him.

Xiao Yulin, 39, a Chinese national, was charged under sections 53(a) and 63 of the Mines and Minerals Act for allegedly engaging in illegal gold dealing and for allegedly obtaining a Business Certificate by False Pretence under section 311 and section 41 of the Penal Code.

Prosecution informed the court yesterday that it intends to proceed with the two charges.

An interpreter, Mr Jason Indu, was called yesterday after the defence lawyer requested him to properly assist the defendant in taking his plea.

Mr Indu took his oath at the witness box and translated from English to Chinese the 2 counts of charge and their particulars to the defendant, whilst the Chief Magistrate read out those counts of charges one after the other to the defendant in English.

Mr Yulin pleaded not guilty to the first count of the charge for alleged illegal gold dealing.

However, it was the second count of obtaining a business certificate by false pretence that the accused found hard to understand and respond to.

“Prosecutor, the defendant does not understand all the particulars of the charge,” the Principal Magistrate said.

Fraud Unit investigation documents revealed Mr Xiao Yulin was employed by Happy Inn Company, trading as “Fastina Gold Buyer” under a licence registered for Alligator Creek.

It was alleged that the accused illegally bought gold at the rate of $850 per gram with a signboard displaying ‘Buy Gold’ at Tenaru junction, Central Guadalcanal—an area not covered by the license.

The Gold Dealer’s Licence (GDL) is intended for Solomon Islands citizens only and is non-transferable.

Currently, issuance of GDL licenses is suspended after Gold Ridge Mining Limited notified the Ministry of Mines of non-issuance, following reports that licenses that were intended for local entrepreneurs were being exploited by Chinese gold buyers.

The prosecutor asked that the court adjourn until Monday for him to rectify the particulars as contained within the charge of false pretence before the defendant can take his proper plea.

Defence counsel, Mark Sina, suggested to the court that the prosecution serve the amended charges in advance, before Monday, so that he can give instructions to Mr Yulin before arraignment.

In the meantime, the police bail for Mr Yulin was further extended till Monday, and his interpreter was also asked to be available on Monday.

Chief Magistrate Lomea subsequently granted an adjournment to Monday, May 18, at 9 am, when the accused is expected to enter his plea to the second count of false pretence.

Steward Tonowane is prosecuting the case, and he represents the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, while Private Defence lawyer Mark Sina from Honiara Attorney at Law represents the accused.

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Bus driver and conductor fined $2000 for operating on short route

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Honiara Central Magistrate’s Court has fined a bus driver and a conductor $1000 each for breaching business license conditions by operating on a short public transport route.

Alister Maluka of Taba’a village, North Malaita, and Darren Basi of Rufoki village, East Fataleka, Malaita Province, were charged with operating on a short bus route service.

Principal Magistrate Ben Alasia, in delivering his sentence judgment on Thursday, reminded the bus driver and his conductor in court of the entrusted responsibility that comes with operating reliable and reasonable public transport services in the country, especially to students, the working class and public commuters.

Principal Magistrate Alasia told the offenders in court that it was because of their ignorance of the HCC business license conditions that they continued to unfairly profit or enrich themselves at the expense of the passengers, resulting in them having to pay double bus fare from one bus stop to another, resulting in them arriving late at their work offices and schools with unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses.

The Principal Magistrate entered a conviction upon their guilty pleas and imposed a fine of $1000.00 each. Both must pay their fines totalling $2000.00 to be payable to the court no later than Friday next week.

They were told in court that, in default of payment, they will subsequently serve 2 months imprisonment term at the Rove Correctional Centre.

The complainant in this matter is a female passenger who was standing at the White River bus stop waiting for a bus to the Central Market.

It was alleged that on May 5, 2026, at about 8:15 am, the complainant and other passengers boarded the bus bearing registration B-1828.

The bus then took off and dropped the passengers at the Rove Bulk shop bus stop, and the bus conductor was seen calling out for Central Market to the passengers.

The complainant again boarded that same bus, and upon arrival at the central market, the female complainant then went to the Law enforcement office and reported the matter.

Officers then later sighted the bus and invited the driver and his conductor to the law enforcement office for further dealings.

At the station, both were formally arrested and charged and were bailed to appear before the court for a plea.

Francis Wales who is the case manager of the HCC Prosecution office told Island Sun yesterday that the HCC does not have the capacity to enforce this regulation at all bus stops and that all passengers are advised to take the Bus registration number of any Bus sighted in breach of short route and over charging bus fare by either calling the landline #26342 or to make a formal complaint and statement at the HCC enforcement headquarter.

Mr Harry Bisafo prosecuted the case, and he represented the HCC and the defendants were self-represented in court.

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Woman fined $600 for illegal sale of betelnut and cigarettes

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BY MELVILLE TITIULU

The Magistrate Court has imposed a consecutive fine of $600 on a woman found guilty of illegally selling betelnut and cigarettes in restricted public areas.

Phylistus Fugui of Fo’orau Village, Ata, Malaita Province was charged with two counts of charges.

The first count is in relation to hawking within the limits of Honiara Town boundaries without a valid hawkers’ license, contrary to section 3(1) of the principal hawkers’ ordinance and section 3(2) of the Honiara City Council (hawkers) amendment ordinance 2023.

The second count is in relation to the selling of betelnut in a betelnut-free zone, contrary to section 7(b) of the Honiara City Council (betel nut) ordinance 2023.

The accused pleaded guilty to those charges when arraigned.

It was alleged that on May 6, 2026 at about 11.27 am, in a public place in front of the LA Kaibar behind the NPF building at the Point Cruz in Honiara, Mrs Fugui unlawfully carried about in a manner as for sale to the general public, 9 rolls of Pall Mall cigarettes at $2.50 per roll and 7 rolls of Bro Sky cigarettes at $2.00 without a Hawker’s licence.

It was later discovered that on the same date, time and location, the defendant was also selling 23 fruit betelnuts at $3 per fruit betelnut and 17 fruit leaves at $1 per fruit leaf, in a betelnut-free zone, which is prohibited.

The HCC officers approached the defendant and invited her to follow them to the law enforcement office for further dealings, where the defendant was later formally arrested and charged, and released on principal bail to appear before the court on her scheduled date.

The maximum penalty for the offence of Hawking in a public place without a hawker’s license is $1,000. The corresponding sentence is 40 days’ imprisonment.

Whereas, the objective of the Betelnut Free Zone Ordinance 2023 is to regulate the sale and consumption of betelnut and betelnut products within Honiara City.

The ordinance itself makes it an offence to sell, consume, spit, chew betelnut and litter anywhere in a betelnut-free zone (HCC-designated areas).

Principal Magistrate Ben Alasia presided over the matter when it came for sentencing on Thursday.

The court took into consideration the defendants’ personal circumstances in light of the seriousness of the offence in reaching the appropriate fine.

Accordingly, the court imposed a fine of $300 for count 1 and $300 for count 2 to be payable to the court by Friday next week.

In default of payment, she will serve 1 month’s imprisonment at the Rove Correctional.

Harry Bisafo prosecuted the matter, and he represented the HCC while the offender was self-represented in court.

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Wale warns of painful changes, calls for unity and discipline

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BY NED GAGAHE

Newly elected Prime Minister Matthew Wale has warned Solomon Islanders to prepare for difficult but necessary changes, saying his government takes office at a challenging time shaped by global uncertainty and economic pressures.

In his first address to the nation following his election, Prime Minister Wale appealed for unity, discipline and courage, stressing that Solomon Islands cannot escape the impacts of international geopolitical developments.

“We take government at a difficult time given what is happening throughout the world.

“We are not immune from the impacts of these geopolitical events. Therefore, your government will exercise discipline and prudent management to see us through these difficult times,” Wale said.

The Prime Minister said his administration would prioritise responsible governance but called on citizens to stand together as the country navigates the challenges ahead.

“I call on all Solomon Islanders to summon the strength and courage to stand united in the face of these difficulties,” he said.

Delivering one of the strongest messages of his maiden speech, Wale declared that “change is coming,” cautioning that reforms needed to reposition the country for growth may be painful.

“These changes are necessary and may be painful,” he said.

“I ask that you join with your government in putting your hand to the plough. Let us all unite and count the cost of effecting the changes that are necessary to position our country to flourish.”

The Prime Minister also issued a direct appeal to young people across the country, encouraging them to be ambitious and actively contribute to national development.

“I appeal to the youth of our country, be ambitious for yourselves and to be part of the growth we want to see in Solomon Islands,” Wale stated.

Faith and prayer featured strongly throughout the address, with the Prime Minister thanking Christians nationwide for supporting the country through prayer during recent political uncertainty.

“To all Christians who have daily prayed for our beloved Solomon Islands, your prayers have not been in vain.

“Please continue to intercede for our beloved nation,” he said.

Quoting scripture, Wale said national progress must be grounded in faith and humility, adding that Solomon Islands should recommit itself to God as the country enters a new political chapter.

“We rededicate our beloved Solomon Islands to Yahweh, the almighty God who reigns forever,” he said.

The Prime Minister concluded with the prayer of King Solomon, asking for wisdom and discernment to lead the country.

“So, give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this,” Wale said.

Photo credit: Ned Gagahe

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Wale promises change, says economy must work for all

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BY NED GAGAHE

Newly elected Prime Minister Matthew Cooper Wale has promised Solomon Islanders that change is coming, pledging to pursue reforms aimed at creating a more inclusive economy where all citizens benefit, not just a privileged few.

Speaking emotionally to local journalists outside Parliament House shortly after his election yesterday, Wale described his elevation to the nation’s top office as both an honour and a heavy responsibility.

“It’s a great honour and a wonderful privilege. This is a great country,” Wale said before pausing and adding, “Sorry, I’m still emotional.”

The new Prime Minister said serving the people of Solomon Islands is a responsibility he will not take lightly.

“To serve these beautiful people of this country, it’s a privilege that I would not take lightly,” he said.

Prime Minister Wale reflected on years spent advocating for reforms and national development, saying his government would now work to turn those ideas into action despite limited time and resources.

“I have said many things over many years, the things we must do for our country. I will do my utmost in that direction.

“Obviously we cannot do everything in two years. Obviously, we do not have much time,” he said.

The Prime Minister stressed he does not want his administration remembered for inaction and promised to make meaningful progress during its term.

“I don’t want to be accused of doing nothing. We want to do as much as possibly as we can in the short time with limited resources.

“But I promise you, change is coming. Give me a week or two and you will see,” Wale stated.

Wale thanked Solomon Islanders for remaining patient throughout weeks of political uncertainty and leadership negotiations that followed recent developments in Parliament.

“Well, I say thank you to all Solomon Islanders who have followed the process when leadership has been stuck for a number of weeks. It has come to a conclusion,” he said.

He called on citizens to unite behind national development efforts and urged people to become productive contributors to the country’s growth.

“Let us all bind together and everybody must work.

“If you have nothing to do, do something. Let us all be active in doing something,” Wale said.

The Prime Minister also outlined his broader vision for economic reform, saying the current system must change to ensure ordinary citizens have greater opportunities to participate and benefit.

“We want to create something in this economy of this country where everybody participates and benefits.

“We must change that kind of economy where only a few elites are benefiting while the rest are at the bottom. This has to change,” he said.

While acknowledging transformation will not happen immediately, Wale insisted his government is committed to beginning the process.

“We can’t achieve it overnight, but we must start from somewhere,” he added.

Photo credit: Ned Gagahe

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WALE SWORN IN AS NEW PM

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  • Promises discipline, accountability and change as he takes office after political shift

BY NED GAGAHE

Matthew Cooper Wale is the new Prime Minister of Solomon Islands following his victory in the Prime Ministerial election yesterday, ending days of political uncertainty after the successful Motion of No Confidence against former Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

Mr Wale, Member of Parliament for Aoke/Langalanga and leader of the Solomon Islands Democratic Party, was officially sworn in at Government House by Governor-General Sir David Tiva Kapu shortly after securing victory in Parliament.

The 57-year-old veteran politician defeated rival candidate Peter Shanel Agovaka by 26 votes to 22 in a closely watched contest. Of the 50 Members of Parliament, 49 ballots were cast, with one member absent and one vote declared spoilt.

Addressing supporters and the nation outside Parliament House after his election, Prime Minister Wale acknowledged the enormous responsibility before him and pledged to govern with discipline and accountability.

“It is a great privilege indeed and an honour to be elected your Prime Minister today.

“I will not trifle with this privilege and the government that I lead will do its utmost to serve. Please help keep us accountable and responsible,” Wale said.

The new Prime Minister admitted his administration is assuming office during difficult times and warned Solomon Islanders that some decisions ahead may not be easy.

“We take government at a difficult time…but we will exercise discipline and prudent management,” he said, adding that changes needed to improve the country may be painful.

In a message aimed particularly at young people, Wale urged citizens to remain hopeful and ambitious, saying the country’s future depends on collective effort and national unity.

“Change is coming,” he declared, calling on Solomon Islanders to work together to build a stronger nation.

The Prime Minister also thanked churches and Christians throughout the country for their prayers during the political transition and ended his first public address with prayer.

Long Political Career

Mr Wale is no stranger to national leadership.

He entered Parliament in 2008 through a by-election following the death of former Prime Minister Bartholomew Ulufa’alu and has represented the people of Aoke/Langalanga ever since.

Later that year, he was appointed Minister for Education and Human Resources Development under former Prime Minister Derek Sikua’s government.

Following the 2019 National General Election, Wale became Leader of Opposition and gained prominence for advocating political reform, accountability, transparency and anti-corruption measures.

He was also among key figures pushing for leadership changes during the 2021 political unrest, filing a Motion of No Confidence against then Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare — although that motion was unsuccessful.

After losing the 2024 Prime Ministerial race to former Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, Wale has now returned to contest and won the nation’s top political office.

He was also appointed the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2025 New Year Honours which recognised his years of public and political service.

Photo credit: Ned Gagahe

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PADDLING FORWARD

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More than 30 athletes expected as ARO pushes growth of Va’a racing in Solomon Islands

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The ARO Outrigger & Canoe Club is anticipating a strong turnout for its upcoming Pentecost Sprints Regatta 2026 as excitement continues building within Honiara’s growing paddling community ahead of the May 25 event.

The regatta, which will be staged at DC Park, Iumi Water Sports Park, is expected to attract more than 30 paddlers from clubs and nearby communities across various divisions throughout the day.

Speaking to Island Sun, ARO Outrigger & Canoe Club President Ms Piuela Manuopangai said preparations are progressing well, with positive responses already received from paddlers and supporters.

“We are expecting a strong turnout for this year’s Pentecost Sprints Regatta, with paddlers and crews from a number of clubs around Honiara and nearby communities already confirming their participation.

“At this stage, we anticipate over 30 paddlers across various divisions throughout the day,” Manuopangai said.

The regatta will feature V1 sprint races over 250 metres and 500 metres, along with a 3-kilometre mixed relay event that aims to test speed, endurance and teamwork on the water.

Manuopangai said the competition is part of the club’s wider efforts to help grow and strengthen outrigger canoeing in Solomon Islands.

“The main purpose of hosting the Pentecost Sprints Regatta is to promote and develop outrigger canoeing locally while also bringing the paddling community together in a positive and competitive environment.

“Events like this are important because they create opportunities for athletes to gain race experience, build discipline, encourage teamwork, and inspire younger paddlers to get involved in the sport,” she said.

She added that the regatta is not only about competition, but also about creating opportunities and building a healthy sporting environment for the future of Va’a racing in the country.

Apart from the races, spectators can also expect a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere throughout the day, including music, food, refreshments and entertainment activities.

The club will also stage its fundraising raffle draw during the event to encourage greater community participation and support.

“The regatta is really about bringing people together — not only athletes, but families, supporters, and the wider community,” Manuopangai said.

Funds raised through the raffle will assist the club with equipment maintenance, race participation, training programs and future club development initiatives.

“Community support is extremely important to the club.

“Every contribution, whether big or small, helps us continue building the sport and supporting our athletes both on and off the water,” she said.

Meanwhile, organisers have assured that safety remains a top priority for the event.

Preparations include experienced steerspersons and officials overseeing races, safety boats on standby, and official race briefings for all participating crews.

Weather and water conditions will also be monitored closely throughout the regatta to ensure races are conducted safely.

The club recently farewelled one of its long-serving paddlers, Rebecca “Bec” Williams, who was acknowledged for her contributions towards helping shape the club’s culture and team spirit since its early beginnings.

“Bec has had a huge impact on ARO Club from the very beginning.

“Beyond her paddling, Bec has been someone who encouraged others, supported teammates, and helped shape the family environment within ARO,” Manuopangai said.

She added that although Williams has relocated to New Zealand, she will always remain part of the ARO family.

ARO Outrigger & Canoe Club is among the active Va’a and outrigger canoe clubs in Honiara and continues promoting paddling through training programs, community activities and local regattas that aim to develop the sport in Solomon Islands.

Photo: Supplied

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SI Hookin4Health empowering women

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BY TONY IROGA

Hookin4Health Solomon Islands says empowering women and supporting mothers is essential to shaping healthier homes, stronger communities, and a brighter future for young people.

This message was echoed by the Hookin4Health development officer Mrs Esmie Belo during a Mother’s Day program hosted earlier this week at the National Hockey Centre at the KGVI grounds in East Honiara.

“Empowering women and supporting mothers is essential to building healthier families, stronger communities, and a brighter future for our young people,” Belo said.

Belo said the session began with meaningful discussions and interactive group activities highlighting the importance of a “Happy Healthy Mother, Happy Healthy Relationship, and Happy Healthy Family” in building stronger homes and healthier communities.

“It was a valuable opportunity for mothers and women to come together, share experiences, encourage one another, and deepen their understanding of how to build healthy relationships and stronger families within their communities,” Belo said.

They were grateful to everyone who attended and made this program a successful and inspiring celebration of Mother’s Day.

“At Hookin4Health Solomon Islands, we believe that empowering women and supporting mothers plays a huge role in creating healthier families and a better future for our young people,” Belo highlighted.

Belo said the program highlighted a Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing mothers and women in the communities.

“We made a sincere appreciation to the Australia High Commission, Solomon Islands, Oceania Hockey Federation, Hookin4Health, Aspire Cains Community Limited, and the Solomon Islands Hockey Federation for their valuable support in making the program a success,” Mrs Belo said.

Photo credit: SIHF

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Kings FC targets stronger return after exit from OFC Pro League

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BY TONY IROGA

Solomon Kings FC have set their sights on a stronger comeback in next year’s OFC Pro League following their early exit from the OFC Pro League, with the club acknowledging the challenges faced during the campaign while remaining optimistic about long-term development.

The statement was shared after Solomon Kings FC bowed out of their OFC Pro League Challenger Group match on Wednesday this week in Auckland, New Zealand, during the 2026 season.

Solomon Kings FC have shifted their focus towards long-term development following their exit from the OFC Pro League Challenger Group match held in Auckland.

The Solomon Islands-based club bowed out of the competition after a challenging encounter, marking the end of their 2026 campaign.

Despite the early exit, the club has described the experience as an important step in its ongoing development and preparation for future tournaments.

In an official statement, Solomon Kings FC said the 2026 campaign is part of a broader strategic plan that aims to strengthen the team’s performance ahead of the 2027 season.

“We see this year’s participation as an important learning phase for the players and technical team,” the statement noted. “Our focus now is on early preparation, improving player performance, and building a stronger squad for the 2027 OFC Pro League.”

The club emphasised that exposure to high-level competition in the region is essential for the growth of its players, particularly in terms of match experience, tactical discipline, and physical conditioning.

Team officials also highlighted that lessons from the 2026 campaign will be reviewed as part of their off-season planning process, with improvements expected in training programs, player development pathways, and squad depth.

Although disappointed with the early exit, Solomon Kings FC remains optimistic about the future and is committed to returning to the competition stronger and more competitive in 2027.

The club’s early planning approach signals a renewed focus on long-term success and sustained development within Oceania football.

The club also extends its appreciation to stakeholders and supporters who have backed the team throughout their campaign.

“We would like to sincerely thank the Prime Minister’s Office of Solomon Islands, Solomon Ports, Solomon Airlines, the Australia High Commission, Solomon Islands, Wolves, our loyal fans the Kings Army, Solomon Islands Victoria Association (SIVA), the Solomon Islands Brisbane Community, Our Telekom, and the Solomon Islands Football Federation for their continuous support to the team,” the statement said.

Photo credit: SK Fb Page

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HCC teachers gain valuable coaching and officiating skills through OSEP programme

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BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Physical Education (PE) teachers from schools across Honiara have completed a two-day coaching and officiating course that aims to strengthen sports development within schools and communities in the capital.

The Oceania Sport Education Programme (OSEP) Community Coach & Official (CC&O) training, facilitated by the National Sports Council, concluded on Tuesday at the Multi-Purpose Hall in Honiara after bringing together PE teachers from various Honiara City Council schools.

While the programme focused on improving coaching and officiating knowledge, participants also highlighted the wider impact sport can have on students and young people throughout the country.

One of the participants, Tuvaruhu Community High School sports master James Lee Hari’araha, described the training as both valuable and timely for teachers involved in school sports.

Hari’araha said the course had broadened his understanding of coaching and equipped teachers with practical skills needed to guide students in different sporting activities.

“The programme gives us teachers and sports masters more knowledge about different types of sports which we can run in our schools,” he said.

He explained that the training will help teachers become more effective coaches during school competitions and sporting events.

“When sports events come up, we will be able to tackle them properly by giving instructions and quality teaching to students in different sports,” Hari’araha added.

According to him, the training also reinforced the importance of physical education and sport in promoting healthy lifestyles among students and teachers alike.

He said sport plays a major role not only in physical fitness but also in helping young people stay engaged in positive activities.

“It contributes a lot to the well-being of teachers, coaches and students. It is also good for the development of sport inside schools and in Solomon Islands as a whole,” he said.

Hari’araha further noted that one of the most important lessons from the workshop was understanding the difference between good and bad coaching styles.

He stressed that good coaching was essential in helping young athletes grow and enjoy sport in a positive environment.

“The most important part we learned is good coaching. Many coaches know it, but sometimes they do not use it properly. That is one thing we will take back from this programme,” he said.

He also believes programmes such as the OSEP training can have a long-term impact on students by encouraging them to participate in sport and stay away from negative activities.

The training was conducted from May 11 to 12 after being requested by the HCC Sports Division as part of efforts to strengthen the capacity of PE teachers involved in school sports development.

HCC Sports Development Officer Chris Bakeua said the objective was to equip teachers with practical coaching and officiating skills that would support school sports programmes and preparations for the upcoming HCC Athletics Championship in June.

The training was facilitated by OSEP Master Educator and NSC Education Manager Atueta Balekana together with OSEP Educator and NSC Provincial Sports and Recreational Coordinator Carlson Hagemana.

Participants represented schools including Naha CHS, Koloale CHS, Honiara High School, Mbua Valley CHS, Vura CHS, St John CHS, Tuvaruhu CHS, Mbokona CHS, Panatina CHS, Mbokonavera CHS and White River CHS.

The Oceania Sport Education Programme (OSEP) is a regional initiative supported across Pacific countries to strengthen sports education, coaching, officiating and community participation in sport. In Solomon Islands, the programme is regularly facilitated through the National Sports Council to support capacity building for teachers, coaches and sports administrators.

Photo credit: NSC

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