BY LORETTA B MANELE

More police officers are showing interest in prosecution work.

According to Inspector Rodney Wheatney, Director of Police Prosecution, this was evident after they found out that more than 50 police officers had applied for the “Prosecutor Qualifying Course”.

Speaking at a ceremony on Monday this week to mark the opening of the course funded by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), he stated that the application process for this course was rigorous and competitive.

Inspector Wheatney said they wanted officers who not only had the ability but also a genuine interest to serve in prosecutions.

“More than 50 officers applied for just 22 available places.

“Among those accepted are 12 officers from provincial stations-demonstrating that the interest and talent for prosecutions is spread right across our country,” he said.

Inspector Wheatney congratulated the 22 police officers who are now undertaking the course.

“To each of you who has been selected, congratulations, your acceptance is a recognition of your potential and your commitment,” he said.

He also took the opportunity to thank the government and people of Australia for funding this course.

“Before I close, I must pause to extend our gratitude to the government and people of Australia. The rollout of an intensive six-week course of this nature is beyond our current resources.

“Without their support, this program simply could not happen. On behalf of the RSIPF and the people of the Solomon Islands, I thank you sincerely for making this possible,” said Inspector Wheatney.

He reminded the police officers that the coming weeks will be challenging as the workload will be heavy with high standards along with a demanding training.

Despite this, the inspector raised that it is through this challenge that they will grow and acquire specialised legal advocacy skills that will serve them for the rest of their career.

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BY CHRIS ALEX

Mbiti Clinic officially reopened yesterday, marking a major milestone for both the local community and the health sector.

Present at the ceremony were local leaders, health officials, and community members who celebrated the efforts that made the clinic’s restoration possible.

Among the standout figures at the event was Danny Lini, the Chairman of Mbiti Clinic, whose unwavering dedication to the clinic’s renovation has been instrumental in its successful reopening.

Lini, a passionate and driven young community leader, has been at the forefront of the clinic’s restoration project, ensuring that healthcare services are brought closer to those who need it the most.

When Guadalcanal Province Supervising Health Director Ray Seleso took office in April 2024, he was confronted with a clinic that was three-quarters completed. Danny Lini showed him progress pictures of the renovation and requested support from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) to complete the remaining work.

During their discussions, Director Seleso learned that the initial renovation efforts were made possible through a collective contribution from the local Member of Parliament, the Ward Development Committee, and the community itself.

This grassroots effort highlights the strength of collaboration between local leaders and the community in improving public services.

The renovation project was supported through health grants from the National Government, which funded the completion of essential infrastructure. Among the significant improvements was the repair of the community water supply system and the installation of a 5KWa solar system.

The solar power system is a first for the province, being the largest of its kind in any clinic across Guadalcanal. This upgrade is particularly vital for ensuring a reliable energy supply during the rainy season, a common challenge in Southern Guadalcanal.

Director Seleso highlighted that this solar system will guarantee power availability year-round to ensure that the clinic’s operations will not be disrupted by seasonal weather changes.

The government also focused on ensuring the clinic is stocked with adequate medical supplies, including medicines and dressings, through partnerships with various stakeholders.

One of the most impactful aspects of the clinic’s reopening is the dramatic reduction in travel time for local residents seeking medical care.

For years, the community had to endure long walks up to three hours to reach Mbabanakira or six hours to Viso Clinic. With the reopening of Mbiti Clinic, healthcare services are now more accessible, providing essential medical care closer to home.

Director Seleso remarked on the significance of this event for the local community.

“For the first time in over four years, people will no longer have to endure long, exhausting walks to access health services. Mbiti Clinic will be the healthcare lifeline for the people in this region,” he said.

The reopening of Mbiti Clinic stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when communities, local leaders, and government institutions work together.

Director Seleso emphasized that this accomplishment is not just about the clinic’s physical renovation, but also about the resilience and unity of the community.

“This is a true testament to the power of community engagement and collaboration. The clinic’s reopening represents a shared vision of improving healthcare in Guadalcanal, and we look forward to seeing this positive impact continue in the years to come,” Seleso added.

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BY CHRIS ALEX

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) officially launched the “Launchpad Initiative on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 in partnership with the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT).

The initiative aims to empower SINU graduates from the School of Business and Tourism to take their first bold steps into the world of entrepreneurship

Over the next five weeks, selected participants will undergo an intensive program of mentorship and training, designed to shape and refine their innovative business ideas.

At the conclusion of the program, four standout entrepreneurs will each receive a $40,000 grant to bring their business visions to life. Beyond financial backing, the Launchpad Initiative offers participants access to valuable industry guidance and real-world business support.

Speaking at the launch of the initiative, MCT Permanent Secretary Mr. Bunyan Sivoro encouraged graduates to embrace the challenge.

“Be bold, be original, and believe in yourselves,” he said.

He emphasized that the path to success in entrepreneurship demands confidence, creativity, and a willingness to take risks.

Dr. William Parairato, SINU’s Pro Vice Chancellor Corporate in his remarks said this a step in the right direction to support young people to become entrepreneurs.

He highlighted SINU’s dedication to preparing students not just academically, but also for impactful roles in society and the economy.

“We congratulate all participants and look forward to seeing their ideas take flight. The entrepreneurial journey begins now,” he stressed.

The Launchpad Initiative is seen as a milestone in youth entrepreneurship development in the Solomon Islands, and signals a strong commitment by national institutions to nurture the next generation of business leaders.

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The decision we make must be based on the evidence and on what we have seen says Andrew Kelesi, Director of Public Prosecutions.

He was speaking to 22 police officers selected to be part of a program “Prosecutors Qualifying Course” at the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Headquarters on Monday, September 15, 2025.

The course, funded by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) also commenced on Monday.

Catering to both police officers from the province and Honiara, the program is set to end on the 25th of next month, October.

Kelesi stressed that the decision they make must not be based on their own decisions but on the evidence and whatever they have with them.

“Make sure we do not make a decision based on our decisions. It must be based on the evidence.

“It must be based on the exhibits and everything that is contained. We do not make any decision because of something else or other reasons,” he said.

Kelesi went on to tell the officers that their job is about making sure the truth comes out while noting that at the end, it is the court that decides based on the stories they present.

On this note, he remined them that they must also make sure that they are accountable for their actions.

“Whatever the actions that we take, we must be accountable.

“We must be accountable to the people of Solomon Islands. We must be accountable to the booklets that are placed against us. We must be accountable to the people around us,” he stressed.

Kelesi also pointed out that life of a prosecutor is challenging but sometimes technical.

He warned the officers that there will be a lot of files they will be reading and some cases that will be pending.

Kelesi noted that in some situations, they will have people coming up to them.

“People will come to you and try and do something to influence you about whatever decision that you are going to make,” he said.

Kelesi in this regard, reiterated that they must conduct themselves according to their ethics as prosecutors.

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) is finalising it’s 10-year Strategic Plan 2026-2036.

Inspector Rodney Wheatney, Director of Police Prosecution Department gave a brief take on this whilst delivering remarks at the opening of the Prosecutor Qualifying Course for 22 police officers on Monday this week.

“At present, the RSIPF is finalising it’s ten-year Strategic Plan 2026-2036,” he said.

Wheatney explained that goal 3 of this plan focuses on developing a resilient and capable police workforce.

He said one of the key deliverables under that goal is the rollout of annual training programmes across specialised areas of policing with a specific reference to prosecutions.

“This Prosecutor Qualifying Course is therefore perfectly aligned with that vision- it is a direct contribution to building the professional capacity of our force,” said the inspector.

In relation, he emphasised how unique and specialised prosecution work is within the police force.

Inspector Wheatney said unlike lawyers, police prosecutors do not spend years in law school however they are required to stand in court every day and perform legal work of the highest standard.

“They must present evidence, examine and cross-examine witnesses, make legal submissions and argue cases with both skill and confidence,” he said.

The inspector highlighted that this is no small task thus why such training such as the Prosecutor Qualifying Course is essential to equip our officers with the legal knowledge, advocacy skills and discipline required to succeed in such a demanding role.

He also mentioned that as part of the professionalisation of prosecutions, he is also advocating for the introduction of a Prosecution Career Pathway.

Inspector Wheatney said prosecutions and investigations alongside forensics are among the most specialised areas of policing hence it makes sense to have a clear and structured process for the appointment and recognition of police prosecutors.

“A structured career pathway will do more than professionalise our department. It will give officers clarity on the processes they must follow to be appointed as prosecutors,” he said.

He furthered that, more importantly, this will give confidence to the Director of Public Prosecutions that police officers put forward for appointment are properly trained, tested and qualified to step into that role.

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BY CHRIS ALEX

Bethesda Disability Training and Support Centre (DTSC), a key institution dedicated to the education and support of children with disabilities, is making strides in its efforts to improve living conditions for its students.

The school, which serves children with physical, intellectual, and developmental challenges, has long been a place of hope and empowerment, helping to create a more inclusive community for students with special needs.

As part of its ongoing mission to provide better care and accommodation, the school has initiated a fundraising campaign that aims to construct improved dormitory facilities for students.

The need for better housing is pressing, with current facilities no longer able to adequately serve the growing number of students.

Mr. Keretau, Chairman of Bethesda DTSC, and Mr. Ali Hebala, Assistant Chairman, are leading the fundraising efforts, which have already garnered significant support from both local and international sponsors.

Despite the challenges faced, the school is determined to continue providing an empowering educational experience for its students.

In a heartfelt message, Deputy Principal of Bethesda DTSC, Baddley Kimmy Keretau, expressed gratitude to the sponsors who have supported the fundraising campaign. Their contributions are essential in helping the school achieve its goal of improving dormitory facilities for the children it serves. The sponsors include:

-Delite Industries Limited

-Victory (Goodman Fielders)

-Central Development Limited (CDL)

-Soltuna Company

-Kaotave RTC School

-Numbu Local Church

-Koara Local Church

-Gilbit Mensband

-Nofokava Construction

-Partson Siliota & Family

The combined effort of the community and these sponsors have been instrumental in helping Bethesda DTSC advance its mission to provide a nurturing environment for its students.

These donations are a testament to the compassion and solidarity within the Solomon Islands, showing that when communities come together, great things can be achieved.

Despite facing many challenges, including limited resources and infrastructure, Bethesda DTSC remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a better future for children with disabilities.

Teachers and staff continue to go above and beyond in providing the best education and support possible, while the local community continue to rally behind the cause.

“We are deeply thankful to everyone who contributed to this fundraising event. Your support brings us one step closer to ensuring that our students have the safe, comfortable, and supportive environment they deserve,” said Keretau.

As the efforts to raise funds for better dormitory facilities continue, Bethesda DTSC remains a beacon of hope and progress for the children it serves.

Through hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of the community, the school is poised to continue its mission to foster inclusiveness, empowerment, and opportunity for children living with disabilities.

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