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HISTORY MADE 

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Solomon Airlines launches inaugural trans-Tasman flight Auckland-Brisbane-Honiara connection

BY MAVIS N. PODOKOLO

Solomon Airlines has made history with the successful launch of its inaugural trans-Tasman flight, Auckland-Brisbane-Honiara, marking a significant step in enhancing international connectivity for the Solomon Islands.

The first flight on the airline’s new trans-Tasman route took off on Friday, February 21, linking Auckland to Brisbane with onward service to Honiara.

Solomon Airlines’ Commercial Manager, John Wopereis, highlighted the significance of the new route, stating:

“Today (Friday, February 21), we have opened the first Auckland-Brisbane-Honiara route. This makes it even easier for our people and products to move between New Zealand and the Solomon Islands via Brisbane. Additionally, this new route positions us competitively, providing more opportunities for growth while increasing competition among airlines.”

One of the performers hands over a certificate to a passenger who is about to board the inaugural flight.Photo credit- JASON GAGAME.

Wopereis emphasized that Solomon Airlines’ vision is to become the leading emerging airline in the Pacific.

“To achieve this, we must expand and push our boundaries by introducing new routes. Fortunately, we have a strong air services agreement with New Zealand, which enables us to do so. It is essential for our national carrier to capitalize on this opportunity. We have already seen significant traffic from New Zealand via Brisbane, so this new route simply makes it easier for passengers to connect on our aircraft,” he added.

At this stage, Wopereis said the airline’s focus is on building awareness, confidence, and trust in the new route.

“Solomon Airlines is our national carrier, so I encourage travelers to fly local. Every ticket purchase makes a difference, and we look forward to serving you as you travel to Australia, Vanuatu, and New Zealand.”

The Cathy Nori, the only Member of Parliament present at the event, congratulated Solomon Airlines on this milestone achievement on behalf of the Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT).

Cathy Nori.Photo credit -MAVIS PODOKOLO.

“It is great to see this Auckland-Brisbane-Honiara route being reinstated. I’m really happy that Solomon Airlines has revisited this route because New Zealand is a country with which we share a long-standing traditional relationship, much like Australia. This connection should continue, and if Solomon Airlines sees it as profitable, why not? Now that we have two aircraft, we must explore routes that are beneficial for our airline.”Nori said.

In an official press statement, Auckland Airport’s Chief Customer Officer welcomed the addition of the Solomon Airlines service.

“Brisbane is a great hopping off point for travellers looking to soak up Brisbane itself or head to the theme parks, beaches and hinterland destinations within driving distance. Plus with around 200,000 New Zealand expats living in Queensland – estimated to be close to 5% of the state’s population – there is plenty of travel back and forth to reconnect with friends and whānau.

“While markets such as the USA and China are now tracking above pre-COVID levels, trans-Tasman travel is still not fully recovered.

“At times the relatively tight trans-Tasman capacity has meant travellers have faced higher fares at key times in the year, so an increase in capacity and options for travellers is always welcome,” Tasker said.

Group photo.

The new flight departs from Auckland, New Zealand, makes a brief stop in Brisbane, Australia, and continues to Honiara, Solomon Islands. This route is designed to benefit both international visitors and Solomon Islands nationals, making travel more seamless for tourists and expatriates alike.

The event was attended by representatives of the Solomon Islands New Zealand community, Miss Solomon Islands, Elsie Polosovai, and Mr. Dereveke, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Solomons. Also present were Solomon Airlines Executive Members, Member of Parliament Cathy Nori, and members of the media.

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AI must be integrated in National Curriculum: Educators

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

EDUCATORS have stressed that integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the country’s national education curriculum is crucial for keeping pace with the rapidly advancing global landscape.

Hampton Bekepio, Principal of White River Community High School, highlighted the importance of ensuring that no one is left behind as the world progresses.

“When we use AI, it’s supposed to be inclusive… I believe the only way forward is to develop a national curriculum that incorporates AI,” he stated.

He also pointed out that AI and its tools are often more accessible in urban areas, leaving schools in remote regions disadvantaged.

By including AI into the national curriculum, he believes a framework can be established to ensure that all educational institutions, regardless of location, can benefit.

While many educators have strongly advocated for AI integration, a few have raised concerns, stressing that foundational work is needed before taking such a significant step.

Pappu Kapgate from the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) emphasized the pressing need to address low digital literacy among educators.

“Before we move on to AI, we must first strengthen basic digital skills,” he said.

Kapgate underscored that by improving digital literacy, educators would be better equipped to fully leverage AI tools and enhance the learning experience.

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SITAG & SINU Successfully host International Mother Language Day

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

THE Solomon Islands Translation Advisory Group (SITAG) together with the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has successfully hosted the International Mother Language Day on Friday, paying homage to the language diversity of the Solomon Islands.

The event kicked off at 10 am with stakeholders displaying literature resources in various local vernaculars, traditional food samples from the remote Tikopia in the eat to the western region, and promotional videos.

Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Pro Vice-Chancellor Corporate Dr. William Parairato emphasized the importance of language.

The theme; Boldly taking our language into the future emphasized that languages are a vital part of identity and culture” Parairato said.

“For many of us, our mother tongue is the most important part of our lives, enabling us to communicate with family, relatives, and our communities. It is an essential part of our daily interactions with people and the environment,” he added.

Parairato also acknowledged the Faculty of Education and Humanities for their partnership with other stakeholders to make the event a successful one.

The event saw the participation of  Tozen Leokana, Minister of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD), Dr. Franco Rodie, Permanent Secretary, Dr. Michel Kenmogne, Executive Director of SIL Global, SINU staff and students, representatives from the San Isidro Care Centre, MEHRD officials, and the public.

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Premier Pongi pleased with China Medical Team’s visit

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By JOHN HOUANIHAU

Mr. Derek Pongi, Premier of Rennell and Bellona Province, has expressed his satisfaction with the China Medical Team’s visit to his province.

“I am very pleased with the China Medical Team’s visit, as it brings much-needed specialized medical services to the people of my province,” said Pongi.

He stated that the mission is a testament to the strong bilateral relations between the two nations and wished the team great success in their endeavor.

The 3rd China Medical Team in the Solomon Islands (CMT) conducted a five-day free medical clinic in Rennell and Bellona Province from February 9-13 at the invitation of the provincial government.

This marked the first visit by the CMT to Rennell and Bellona and the ninth province the team has served since 2022.

Mr. Steward, a resident who received medical care, expressed his deep appreciation for the China Medical Team’s visit.

“We are truly thankful for the China Medical Team’s visit to Rennell and Bellona. They have provided high-quality and professional medical services to our community. We hope they will return in the future to help even more people,” said Steward.

As part of the mission, the CMT also participated in patient consultations. During the visit, Nephrologist Dr. Tang collaborated with local medical personnel to discuss inpatient cases and provide professional medical advice.

Nurse Ambros, who worked alongside the Chinese doctors, shared his gratitude.

“Working with the China Medical Team has been an invaluable experience. I have learned a great deal about clinical diagnosis and treatment, which has greatly benefited my practice. I sincerely thank the team for bringing their expertise to Tigoa Mini Hospital,” said Ambros.

Looking ahead, the China Medical Team remains committed to providing free medical services at the grassroots level, supporting the health and well-being of Solomon Islanders.

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3rd China Medical Team conducts free clinic in Rennell and Bellona province

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By JOHN HOUANIHAU

The 3rd China Medical Team (CMT) in the Solomon Islands conducted a five-day free medical clinic in Rennell and Bellona Province from February 9-13, following an invitation from the provincial government.

This marked the CMT’s first visit to Rennell and Bellona and the ninth province they have served since 2022. With this visit, the team has now provided medical services across all nine provinces of the Solomon Islands.

The initiative was warmly welcomed by the local government and residents.

The medical team comprised six doctors: Team Leader Dr. Mu Mao, Urologist Dr. Leon Zhong, Cardiologist Dr. Wei Bo, Nephrologist Dr. Tang Yinqian, Acupuncturist Dr. Gary Xu, and Dr. Daniel Li.

With support from local medical personnel, the CMT conducted a three-day free clinic at Tigoa Mini Hospital, treating over 300 patients.

Team Leader Dr. Mu Mao expressed his honor in visiting the province, stating, “We are committed to providing high-quality healthcare to the people of Rennell and Bellona. This mission brings specialized medical services, including acupuncture, cardiology, nephrology, and urology. We believe that through this initiative, both sides will strengthen mutual understanding and deepen the friendship between the peoples of China and the Solomon Islands.”

The free clinics, held from February 10-12 at Tigoa Mini Hospital, offered consultations in acupuncture, cardiology, nephrology, and urology. Local nurses were also invited to assist in medical activities.

The specialized services provided by the Chinese doctors were well received, and the CMT earned high praise from the local community.

Through continued efforts, the team aims to further strengthen the bond of friendship between China and the Solomon Islands.

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Standing together in solidarity: Three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

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Op-ed by the Ambassador of the European Union to the Pacific, HE Barbara Plinkert

Today is a sad day.

Yet another year has passed by since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.

This brutal and unprovoked aggression threatens the rules-based international order, the UN Charter and the very basic principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The implications of a nuclear power carrying out wars of conquest affect the entire global community.

If we let one country invade another sovereign country and annex its territory, what example does that set?

Who could be next?

As we mark three years since Russia started its full-scale aggression against Ukraine, it is important to reflect not only on the devastating impacts of this conflict in Europe but also on its far-reaching consequences across the Pacific region.

Ukraine is part of Europe.

But defending the principle of sovereignty is a collective task.

Sovereignty and territorial integrity are the cornerstone of international order.

Russia wages a neo-colonial, imperialist war against a sovereign member of the international community, breaking international law, including the UN Charter.

The war has shown us that our world is interconnected in unexpected ways; the repercussions of conflict in one region resonate far beyond its borders.

The invasion has unleashed a wave of humanitarian, economic, and geopolitical challenges that impact even those of us thousands of miles away from the battlegrounds.

The war has disrupted global supply chains, leading to rising costs for essential goods and services.

Pacific island nations, often reliant on imports for food, fuel, and other critical resources, have felt the strain of increased prices and reduced availability.

Vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters, already pressing issues for the Pacific, has been exacerbated by the destructive consequences of global conflict.

The EU has worked with its Pacific and other partners to mitigate those effects.

But only when peace is restored in Ukraine, can the path to normalisation begin.

Despite these challenges, what stands out is the unwavering support from the Pacific Island Countries for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

This support reflects a shared commitment to the principles of international law, peace, and the fundamental rights of nations to determine their own destinies.

I extend my deepest gratitude to the Pacific leaders and citizens across the Pacific region who have voiced their opposition to the aggression that has brought so much suffering to the people of Ukraine.

I would like to convey a heartfelt thank you to all our Pacific Partners that have stood up for Ukraine, for the international rules-based order and for the principle of sovereignty, bilaterally and in international fora.

The EU will continue to stand up for Ukraine whatever it takes.

The existence of Ukraine as we know it is at stake.

The EU has been stepping up on security and defence and will continue to do so.

We will stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine in negotiations for peace, fully assuming our responsibilities for Ukraine as a future member of the European Union.

On this February 24, we call on our Pacific Partners to continue acting in a spirit of solidarity with our Ukrainian brothers and sisters.

The Russian threat goes beyond Ukraine.

Together we need to make sure that this aggression fails and international order prevails, for the sake of the sovereignty of all our respective countries, for now and in the future.

The alternative is a world where might makes right.

We cannot leave this legacy to our children.

Fake scholarship case adjourns for March 6

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case of a man accused of fraudulently getting money from students promising them scholarships has adjourned further for March 6 for mention.

Donald Keso is accused of obtaining money from students with the fake promise of giving them Solomon Islands Government Scholarships (SIG) awards.

The matter was heard in court on Wednesday this week where prosecution informed court that police made an attempt to see the accused’s surety but were informed that the surety was in Malaita and will be back at the end of this week.

Police also said the accused’s father had told them that the accused was in Auki.

Court suspended the matter and ordered prosecution to update a summon and serve it to police. The Central police are to communicate with Auki police to serve the summon on the accused.

Donald Keso is charged with three counts of obtaining money by false pretence. He had pleaded not guilty to the counts

Prosecution alleged that Keso obtained money from students with a fake promise of giving them Solomon Islands Government (SIG) Scholarship awards.

It was further alleged that on different dates in March and April 2022, Keso lied to the complainants that he was working as an agent for the National Training Unit (NTU).

He also promised the complainants that if they produced their required documents and gave him sum of $1000, he would place their names on the Solomon Islands Government scholarship (SIG).

Upon hearing the promises, two of the complainants gave Keso $1000 each while one allegedly gave Keso $2,000 for himself and his sister.

Keso then told the victims that he would call them to collect their offer letter when their names were listed for the scholarships.

The complainants waited for a response from Keso but nothing happened.

One of them then went to the NTU office and enquired if a person by the name of Donald

Keso worked at SITESA and in response, a receptionist allegedly told him that a senior female staff member that Donald Keso used to work for had already resigned.

The complainants were students of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) at that time of the offence.

Keso was later arrested by the police after the three complainants lodged their complaints on February 18, 2023.

ODPP act for State and Emy Rusi of PSO represent the accused Donald Keso.

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Assault case adjourned for Feb 28

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The case of a man accused of assault causing bodily harm has been adjourned for February 28.

The matter of James Sugegeo was mentioned in court yesterday and further suspended for defence to made additional submissions on a self-defence issue.

Yesterday defence was to file its submission in court on the additional submissions of self-defence raised by court in previous occasion.

However, the duty lawyer informed court with instructions from the defence counsel in carriage of the file, that she was in a trial and sought adjournment to Friday next week to file the additional submissions.

The matter was adjourned and bail for the defendant was extended.

James Sugegeo is charged with one count of assault causing bodily harm and pleaded guilty to the charge.

Facts of the case say Sugegeo is the uncle of the victim.

He lived with the victim and her mother at Red Label Area at White River.

On 10th of November 2024, victim and her mother and father were at Red Label area, White River at a fundraising program.

The accused was drinking Kwaso and an argument broke out between the victim and the accused.

The accused whom under the influence of the alcohol cannot control himself, he gets up and tackle the victim to the ground, whilst on the ground, he took out a kitchen knife from his bag and stab the victim right thighs and his right-side ribs.

The accused then escaped from the victim when the victim mother shouted at them and rushed into her daughter rescue.

The mother rushed the victim to National Referral Hospital (NRH).

Jeremy Oiofa of Office of Public Prosecution act for crown and Delilah Kukura Fagani of PSO for defendant.

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Drug export case returns in court Feb 28

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BY ROMINAH FAKA

The trial into the case of two people accused of exporting prohibited drugs commenced on Wednesday this week in Magistrate Court before Deputy Chief Magistrate Ricky Iomea.

Yesterday prosecution closed its case after calling six witnesses.

The defendants are Etekia Kauai and Beatrice Umea.

Defence informed court yesterday that its clients have opted to remain silent without calling any witness.

The matter was adjourned to February 28 for defence to file its closing submissions. Bail for both accused was extended.

Kauai and Umea are charged jointly with one count of attempting to export a dangerous drug under the Dangerous Drugs Act. The two defendants pleaded not guilty to the charge.

It was alleged on June 19, 2019 at the Henderson International Airport, the accused packed eight packets of marijuana inside a speaker in 20cm by 20 cm plastic bags.

It was taken to the airport, where accused Umea was on check-in duty for Solomon Airlines.

It was further alleged that Kauai took the package to Umea and she accepted the package as unaccompanied luggage, but tagged the package to a passenger whom she had already checked in.

When the package went through the screening, suspicious arose, the speaker was unscrewed and the packets of Marijuana were found, before it was loaded onto the flight.

Steward Tonowane acts for the Crown and Jennifer Happilyn for Umea Delilah and Kukura Fagani for Etekia Kauai.

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OWNERSHIP HANDOVER

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SINPF and O’Neill Remington Group now co-owners of King Solomon Hotel

By Loretta B Manele

Solomon Islands National Provident Fund and the O’Neill Remington Group from Papua New Guinea are officially the new co-owners of King Solomon Hotel.

Manasseh Sogavare, minister for the Ministry of Finance and Treasury highlighted this at the handing over ceremony of the hotel which was held at the hotel yesterday.

He said the two parties have signed a joint venture agreement to be the co-owners of the hotel in which SINPF owns 55 percent and O’Neill Remington Group 45 percent.

Sogavare expressed that the new hotel will help transform the skyline of our national capital.

“It will provide one additional hub for tourists and business visitors to our country and provide a home away from home for ordinary Solomon Islanders travelling from our provinces to Honiara.”

Sogavare pointed out that the majority share is owned by members of the Solomon Islands National Poverty Fund, the people of Solomon Islands.

He said this will be a symbol of national unity in our country.

Peter O’Neill of O’Neill Remington Group also shared his remarks at the occasion.

He said hotels are building blocks for tourism industry in any country and he is very certain that this is not going to be their only investment in this sector in Solomon Islands.

O’Neill expressed that they are also looking forward to other ventures.

“We have been able to travel in your lovely country over the last few weeks and we have witnessed some of the most exotic and beautiful places in the world.

I am certain that the future for tourism industry in this country is very bright and we look forward to being a very strong partner in that.”

Jimmy Rodgers, Chairman of SINPF board also took the opportunity to share their plans for the new hotel.

He said they are hoping to have five suites to help hotels to accommodate leaders who will be in the country for the forum leaders meeting.

Rodgers stated that they will also go into retaining operation of all the rooms and have them transformed whilst increasing the workforce at the hotel.

Meanwhile, it is understood that the SINPF and O’Neill Remington Group will employ all former 69 employees of the hotel.

Rodgers mentioned that this is the third hotel SINPF has invested in.

“This is the third hotel, because we have a share in the resort in Papua New Guinea. So, we are now slowly growing that footprint.”

Susan Kennedy, former King Solomon Hotel owner congratulated SINPF and O’Neill Remington Group on acquiring the hotel.

“My family and I are delighted to extend our sincerest congratulations to you on the successful acquisition of the King Solomon Hotel. This milestone marks the combination of many years of negotiations but as they say all good things come to those who wait.”

Kennedy said they are confident that under experienced leadership, the hotel will be ushered into a new era of excellence in tourism and hospitality in Solomon Islands.

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