Australia’s Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy wraps up visit announcing funds for development support here

BY NED GAGAHE

Australia’s Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Hon Pat Conroy MP, wrapped up a successful visit to the Solomon Islands yesterday, announcing a major SBD140 million in new development support for key national priorities.

He made the announcement during his two-day visit to the Solomon Islands.

Minister Conroy said the announcement reflects Australia’s continued commitment to its strong partnership with the Solomon Islands, focusing on infrastructure, energy, mining, governance and regional cooperation.

He began his key engagements by joining the Minister for Infrastructure Development, Ricky Fuo’o, where he announced SBD60 million to upgrade vital roads across the Solomon Islands through the National Transport Fund.

This funding will support work on four key transport corridors in Malaita and eight roads in Honiara, with works to be delivered by local contractors.

Together with the Minister for Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, he also announced that Australia will provide SBD38 million in additional grant funding for the Tina River Hydropower Project.

In addition, he announced SBD1.6 million to support improvements in the mining sector.

Minister Conroy, along with the Minister for National Planning and Development Coordination, Rexon Ramofafia, also launched the Australia–Solomon Islands Development Partnership Plan 2024–2029, which sets shared development objectives for the next five years.

Speaking to local media at a press conference yesterday, Minister Conroy said the SBD140 million funding also includes SBD45 million in support for the Solomon Islands’ hosting of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) this year.

This package includes the provision of around 60 security vehicles, support for cybersecurity, upgrades to Honiara’s roads and approximately SBD3 million for logistics support.

“During this trip, I announced 140 million dollars’ worth of additional funding for Solomon Islands Government priorities. That includes 45 million dollars for support for the PIF hosting, including the provision of 61 cars that will then go out to the Solomon Islands Police Force for the provinces, as well as budget support for the PIF,” Minister Conroy said.

Minister Conroy also revealed that more than 10,000 Solomon Islanders have now travelled to Australia to work under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme.

Minister Conroy concluded his visit to the Solomon Islands yesterday.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

The International Day of Seafarers was successfully commemorated at the Solomon Islands Maritime College (SIMC), Ranadi Campus yesterday.

This year’s theme, “My Harassment-Free Ship”, is a global call to action, a demand for dignity, equality, safety and respect aboard every vessel sailing across the oceans.

In attendance at the event were, SIMC Director, Capt. Dr Teorae Kabure, SINU Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr William Parairato, SIMA Interim Director, Agnes Gaote’e, SIMTA president, Australia DFAT & Navy Reps, LCDR Julia Griffin, Japanese High Commissioner, Counsellor Katsumasa Maruo, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Maritime Stakeholders, seafarers, students and family members.

Despite the rain yesterday, the day began with a formal parade and flag-raising ceremony in the compound, followed by an official program featuring keynote speeches.

Guest of Honour and keynote speaker at this year’s International Day of the Seafarers was Minister for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Rick Fuo’o.

“It is with great honour and pride that I stand before you today as we join the rest of the world in commemorating the 2025 International Day of the Seafarer, under the powerful and timely theme, “My Harassment-Free Ship”, he said.

Fuo’o also acknowledged and thanked the Solomon Islands Maritime College and the Seafarers Day Organising Committee for hosting this important celebration.

“Your dedication to the maritime profession and the well-being of our seafarers is truly commendable,” he said.

In 2010, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) established the International Day of Seafarers to recognise the invaluable contributions of seafarers to international trade, the global economy and maritime safety.

In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly formally recognised this day as the annual international day of seafarers.

Since then, countries across the globe have come together every year on this date to reflect, celebrate and advocate for the rights and welfare of men and women who serve at sea.

For feedback,contact:[email protected]

BY INDY MAEALASIA

Minister of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD), Tozen Leokana says government has recognized the need to strengthen school leadership.  

Speaking at the national Principal Conference yesterday, he assured that the government is committed to investing strategically in leadership training, teacher qualifications and professional development.

Leokana also took the opportunity to acknowledge the immense support of stakeholders.

He said he is encouraged to know that successive governments through the education ministry with the support of development partners have continued to make significant strides in strengthening school leadership.

Leokana stressed that in the past, an estimated 1,000 teachers have completed the IOE or the USP General Certificate in Educational Leadership Qualifications.

He added that this is a milestone and one in equipping our educators with the competence needed to lead and manage our schools effectively.

The education minister further acknowledged the critical role the University of the South Pacific (USP) and Solomon Islands National University (SINU) played in training previously unqualified and uncertified teachers.

“As a result, there has been a notable increase in the number of qualified and certified teachers that are currently now entering our workforce.”

Minister Leokana also emphasized the importance of continuing professional development, supported by the Global Partnership for Education (GPE).

He said GPE is further driving this agenda by focusing on the professionalization of school management.

“This includes setting a clearer expectation for school leadership, strengthening accountability systems and supporting principals with structured learning pathways and performance-based development.”

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

BY INDY MAEALASIA

School principals who gathered for the Principal Conference have been hailed as the “driving force” behind education reform in Solomon Islands.

Addressing the education leaders at the opening of the conference yesterday, Education Minister Tozen Leokana told them that as school leaders, they can make a real difference to the learning and well-being of our students in their various schools.

“Your commitment to shaping the minds of the future generations of Solomon Islands is truly commendable and your presence here today underscores your unwavering dedication to educational excellence.”

He pointed out that as leaders, they determine the school’s culture, creating inclusive environments where students are valued and empowered to thrive.

“Your vision guides the journey of learning within your institutions,” he said.

The minister stressed that strong principal leadership has a profound impact on student achievement and well-being.

Leokana highlighted that their guidance, vision and unwavering commitment directly translates into improved academic outcomes which enhances social and economic development and a brighter future for every child under their care.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

BY INDY MAEALASIA

A conference for school principals from across the country commenced at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) yesterday.

Education leaders came together under the theme “Creating a better future for our children in Solomon Islands through Transformational leadership”.

Organized by the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD), with support from the Australia–New Zealand Government’s joint Education Sector Support Program (ESSP), the conference aims to be a platform for dialogue, strategic reflection and leadership renewal to strengthen school leadership and build more resilient and effective schools.

The three-day conference offers a diverse program including plenary sessions, panel discussions and opportunities for professional networking.

In his address, Minister of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) Tozen Leokana welcomed participants and urged them to approach the sessions with open minds.

“I’d like to encourage you to attend these sessions with an open mind. A mind that is ready to grow.

“The ideas and the insights that will be presented through our presenters may challenge your current thinking and that’s where change begins”, he said.

Leokana further advised participants to resonate and adopt these new ideas in their respective schools.

“Ladies and gentlemen, school principals, educators, administrators, this conference is not just admitting minds. It’s just not to meet with your colleagues but it is a call for action. It is a rare opportunity for principals from across our country to reflect, collaborate and inspire one another,” he added.

He concluded by urging school leaders to leave the conference not only with new knowledge, but with a renewed sense of purpose.

“Our country needs school leaders who turn visions into actions and policy into progress,” he said.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

BY CHRIS ALEX

Copra farmers in Western province have been praised by the Seanut Traders company for supporting the company’s success.

Blessed Tavi Peni, owner of Seanut Traders Enterprise, expressed profound gratitude towards the copra farmers in and around Madou Village for their relentless efforts and dedication, which he credits as the backbone of the company’s success.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the copra farmers around Madou Village for their consistent efforts and dedication. Your hard work has been the backbone of this achievement”, Peni said.

He stated that their trading activities have helped improve livelihoods, encouraged agricultural productivity and fostered a spirit of cooperation and growth within the region.

“Together, we are building a stronger future for Madou, Western Province and the Solomon Islands”, Peni added.

Peni said despite facing challenges and competition in the region, Seanut Traders continues to grow.

In this regard, he mentioned that their team is actively engaged in various operations, including bagging and stacking copra, as well as preparing for the upcoming beach trading; a move that will bring their services directly to farmers’ doorsteps.

The company is working to reach as many local farmers as possible, with a special focus on the farmers in Madou Village and Vonvona Lagoon in Western Province.

To help improve drying practices and increase the quality of copra, Seanut Traders is providing empty copra drums to local farmers for use with copra dryers. This initiative is expected to not only raise the standards of copra production but to also improve the livelihoods of farmers.

Peni explained that this is part of their ongoing efforts to improve the quality of copra in their communities and to help ensure better drying practices and higher-quality copra production.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

BY CHRIS ALEX

The recent rise in copra prices has uplifted livelihoods in Ugi island, Makira-Ulawa province, it is reported.

Jerry Wala, a local copra buying agent from Ugi Island, shared this sentiment saying this positive effect is helping local businesses, particularly small operations like his own. 

He expressed that the increased price of copra is having a positive impact on people in the sense that people can afford to pay schools fees and improve their standard of living.

“The high price of copra is boosting livelihoods here. The cash flow in the village is circulating much more than before. People are buying and exchanging goods and there are even more contributions to church offerings and other community areas. It’s touching many lives on the Ugi Islands”, said Wala.

He emphasized that the boost in the price of copra is helping education and healthcare as local farmers in the area are using the additional income to contribute to the development of schools and clinics.

“There’s more money going towards clinics and schools in and around Ugi Island. This has helped Ugi Island move towards becoming a more developed and prosperous area”, said Wala.

Several local farmers, who have been producing copra for years, also shared their thoughts on the unexpected surge in prices.

According to them, such a dramatic increase in price is something they have never experienced before.

One farmer expressed that they have been producing copra for years but have never seen prices skyrocket like this.

“We’re very happy to see this and feel it’s making a real difference in our lives.”

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

BY CHRIS ALEX

While female seafarers are championing positive change in the maritime industry, they are also facing challenges.

Tonian Robert, student and seafarers’ representative spoke about this at the International Day of Seafarers event held at the Solomon Islands Maritime College (SIMC), Ranadi Campus yesterday.

Shedding light on the pivotal role of females in the maritime sector, she voiced that despite the essential contributions of seafarers, female voices remain underrepresented in the maritime world.

“This year, as we celebrate the International Day of Seafarers, we shine a light on the growing number of ‘Girls at Sea’ who are not only challenging traditions but also breaking barriers and creating a ripple of change across the maritime industry”, she said.

Robert highlighted the rise of a new generation of bold and capable young females from across the Solomon Islands who are stepping aboard vessels, not just as passengers, but as professionals being navigators, engineers, radio operators, deckhands and officers in training.

“They are not just pioneers; they are role models paving the way for inclusive growth and innovation in our maritime sector”, she said.

Robert said in Solomon Islands, we are witnessing a shift where women are no longer limited by outdated norms but are setting sail toward new opportunities and horizons.

She also acknowledged the challenges women in the maritime industry face which range from limited opportunities, cultural expectations and the physically demanding nature of life at sea that often requires women to work twice as hard to earn their place.

Despite these obstacles, Robert lauds the resilience, determination and courage shown by young women in the maritime industry.

She said with support and unwavering courage, these girls at sea are proving that the maritime world has room for everyone no matter their gender.

For feedback, contact:[email protected]

BY LORETTA B MANELE

Minister of Public Service, Francis Sade has represented Solomon Islands at the 2025 United Nations Public Service Forum in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

According to a press statement from his ministry, the forum was held from June 23 to June 25 and was co-organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the government of Uzbekistan.

The theme of the event was “Five Years to 2030: Accelerating Public Service Delivery for a Sustainable Future.”

As stated, Sade, during a ministerial panel discussion, highlighted that accelerating public service delivery remains a top priority in Solomon Islands National Policy Agenda under the leadership of the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT).

The minister stressed that Solomon Islands has adopted several forward-thinking strategies to foster and sustain innovation within the public sector including the Digital Transformation and Innovation Strategy, which focuses on; harnessing technology to enhance public service delivery, promoting transparency and accountability through digital governance and rebuilding public trust by improving the interface between citizens and government.

Sade voiced that the GNUT government recognizes that a responsive and citizen-centered public sector is fundamental to achieving sustainable development.

“Our efforts in digital innovation are crucial in ensuring services reach all Solomon Islanders, especially in remote and underserved communities”, he said.

Sade was accompanied by his Permanent Secretary, Mr Luke Cheka and the Deputy Secretary for Governance and Performance Management, Mr Ian Rakafia.

This high-level international gathering is said to have brought together ministers, senior public officials, UN experts and development partners to explore strategies and share best practices to advance public service delivery in support of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

For feedback, contact:[email protected]