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GNUT look beyond your achievements: Kenilorea

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Peter Kenilorea Jnr.

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

Peter Kenilorea Jnr the Leader of the Independent group has urged the Government for National Unity and Transformation to look beyond its achievements.

He made the statement highlighting key priority areas that would enable the Solomon Islands to graduate from the Least Developed Country (LDC) group.

Kenilorea said that one of the core indicators emphasised regarding the LDC was the country’s Human Development Index (HDI).

“We have heard of achievements that the government has already done in the short time that they’ve been in government since the election,’’ he said.

He said that the Solomon Islands will continue to struggle to face challenges.

“That will continue for a while. We will continuously have to deal with as we move forward as a nation,’’ he said.

“Congratulate GNUT, Cabinet, ministers of the Crown, and backbenchers for leading the nation over the past few months. But I would also like to add the importance of looking at other indicators, beyond just these listing of achievements. And these are the Human Development Index or the HDI, one of those main ones that also governs whether we qualify to graduate from the LDC group,’’ he said.

“If you analyse that HDI over the past few years, you will find that we have been struggling, perhaps sluggish, perhaps in some of the sectors we have been going backwards a little bit,’’ he stated.

He said that the government should keep an eye on these indicators to get the people and the nation on track towards graduation.

He said that the HDI allows the Solomon Islands to see its scores based on United Nations assessments and analyses allowing the Country to guide its policies to focus a little bit further on ongoing work and work done.

He said that the field of education is one particular sector that needs more focus based on the HDI index.

He said that health and education are the two biggest factors within these HDIs as they focus on the social aspect of a nation.

“So, the idea that we need to look into these sectors is something that the Parliament is fully aware of, because, as we know, the biggest parts of our budget are education and health,’’ he said.

He said that reflects the focus on the need to lift the country’s scores and ranking as a nation in the Human Development Index.

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ACOM students urged to combat distractions ,focus on earning

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

AS the new academic year begins across the country, students attending various Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM) schools have been urged to reflect on the distractions that hinder their ability to focus and learn.

Delivering his sermon during the ACOM schools’ commissioning service at Saint Barnabas Cathedral on Thursday, Father Wilfred Kekeka addressed the growing concern of technology’s impact on student attention spans.

“In today’s society, students’ concentration spans have been disturbed by technology, especially with mobile phones,” he said.

He pointed out that smartphones have made it easier for everyone, including students, to selectively focus their attention, engaging only with content that immediately interests them.

 The habit of swiping away content that doesn’t capture their attention has led to significantly shorter attention spans.

“Because of this, students cannot concentrate in class,” he said

To address this issue, Father Kekeka urged education providers and school administrations to develop policies that help mitigate these distractions.

He also called on students to train their minds to maintain focus for longer periods, urging them to develop the discipline needed for sustained learning.

In addition to the technological distractions, Father Kekeka warned students against harmful substances such as betel nuts, smoking, and the use of Copen, stressing that these practices can taint the mind and body, making them “unclean.”

The service, which is a tradition held each year has brought together students from ACOM schools including Selwyn College, St Nicholas College, Bishop Norman Palmer, and St Stephen Pamua.

Parents, guardians, and teachers also attended to show their support for the students as they begin the academic year.

SI faces challenges in meeting global education standards

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

MINISTER of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) Tozen Leokana recently highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the Solomon Islands in meeting global education standards.

His comments came during the signing of the new Stronger Education Together (SET) agreement between Australia and the Solomon Islands.

Leokana emphasized that providing access to education, ensuring quality, and achieving strong learning outcomes remain significant hurdles.

He pointed to challenges such as late school entry, a low Year 12 completion rate, inadequate school infrastructure, and persistent gender disparities.

Despite these challenges, Leokana acknowledged that the primary education sector has made significant progress, particularly in improving literacy and numeracy.

The Minister also expressed appreciation for the support from both the Australian and New Zealand governments, which have helped the MEHRD implement reforms and initiatives that have benefited teachers and the education sector as a whole.

“While we have made strides, there remain substantial challenges in meeting global education standards, especially in areas such as access, quality, and learning outcomes,” Leokana added.

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LONGEST POWER BLACKOUT

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Honiara faces extended power blackout after major fault at Lungga Power Station

BY NED GAGAHE

Honiara city experienced one of its longest power blackouts in years, following a significant fault on Solomon Power’s 11KV generator at Lungga Power Station.

The unplanned outage, which began on the evening of Thursday, January 16, 2025, left most of the city without power for over 12 hours.

The power failure, which affected the entire city, plunged Honiara into darkness from around 7:00pm Thursday until early Friday morning.

While power was restored to some areas by 7:00, several parts of the city remained without electricity until around 2:30pm on Friday.

Solomon Power responded with a public notice posted on their Facebook page, apologizing for the inconvenience caused and assuring the public that engineers were working on the issue.

The company stated: “We regret to inform you that there has been an unplanned total power blackout affecting all of Honiara due to unforeseen circumstances. Our engineers are now working on it. We apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding. We will continue to provide restoration progress via Facebook.”

As the situation persisted, Solomon Power informed residents that due to the ongoing fault at the Lungga Power Station, the city was unable to meet its full power demand.

To manage the shortfall, a load-shedding schedule was put into effect.

Solomon Power added that engineers were diligently working to resolve the fault and would continue to provide updates.

Despite assurances, many residents expressed frustration online, with some taking to Facebook to voice their concerns over the extended outage.

One of the longest blackouts in recent memory, the incident has raised questions about the city’s power infrastructure and its resilience in the face of unforeseen failures.

As of yesterday afternoon, engineers were still working on resolving the fault, and Solomon Power has yet to provide a timeline for full restoration.

Residents have been advised to treat all power lines as live at all times, as power will be restored without warning.

Solomon Power has promised to keep the public updated on their progress and thanked residents for their patience and understanding during this challenging period.

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MPG passes $34m budget

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Malaita provincial assembly passes the province’s revised budget estimate of $34,330,635 for 2024/2025 financial year on Friday January 17.

The budget was brought on the floor of assembly by the provincial finance minister, Hon Lemuel Kevianga on Monday and passed after going through required processes.

Introducing the budget, Kevianga acknowledges the hard-working staff of the provincial administration for preparing the budget.

Detail of the budget estimate as follows;  

  • The Total Revenue Budget Summary is estimated at SBD $34,330,635
  • The Total Expenditure Budget Summary is estimated at SBD $34,330,635
  • The Total Recurrent Revenue for financial year 2024/25 is estimated at SBD 18,926,306, which reflects our continuous partnership with our rural populace and our national government.

He explained that from the total recurrent revenue, the local revenue will contribute SBD 6,543,414, SIG through service grant will contribute SBD 11,636,456, savings revenue SBD 57,324 and other revenue, SBD 689,112.

Kevianga furthered that from the difference of total recurrent revenue less total recurrent expenditure figures, the province anticipates a surplus of SBD 2,873,170 to cover the PCDF co-funding and Ward Development Grant (WDG) arrears and current WDG in the capital expenditure.

Adding that the total revised recurrent expenditure for financial year 2024/25 is estimated at SBD 16,053,136.

Moreover, the MPA explained the disbursement of the expenditures especially the core expenditure levels of the provincial government as follow:

  1. Salary & wages which accounts for SBD 6,056,874
  2. Operational costs account for SBD 3,064,369
  3. Assembly and Executive expenditure accounts for SBD 2,799,698
  4. Debt Servicing accounts for SBD 300,000
  5. Repairs & Maintenance SBD 851,548
  6. Representing 42%,40%,11%,2% and 5% respectively.

He said on the revised capital expenditure, the province will spend a total of SBD 18,277,498.40 for this fiscal year.

Of this amount, Kevianga noted that the new revised PCDF allocation stands at SBD 11,873,158, and has recently allocated and reviewed by PPDC according to sectors projects will implement under the program.

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Clement Baegeni: I am planning to return to the field

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    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    Clement Baegeni, the prominent striker for the Malaita Eagles in 2017, has expressed his optimism regarding his football career and is preparing to make his return to the field.

    Now at the age of 30, Baegeni played a pivotal role in the Malaita Eagles’ victory in the 2017 Solomon Cup, where they triumphed over Central Shield with a score of 2-1 in a challenging match held at Lawson Tama.

    Following a year-long break from the sport due to an injury sustained in 2022 while playing for Real Kakamora FC, Baegeni reflected on his career trajectory.

    “After 2017, I joined Henderson Eels for our participation in the OFC. Upon our return, I played for Weneagu, Isebel Frigates, and Real Kakamora,” Baegeni from Sinamauri in West Kwaio, Malaita province said.

    Unfortunately, it was during his time with Real Kakamora that he suffered a significant injury, resulting in a fracture of a small bone in his leg, which supports the main bone.

    “I consulted a practitioner from the Western province who specializes in bone massage, and he advised me to take a year off to ensure complete recovery. Consequently, I returned home and refrained from playing during that period,” Baegeni shared with Island Sun.

    In early 2024, Baegeni arrived in Honiara and began working part-time for the Coast Watchers security firm as he gradually recovered from his injuries.

    The 30-year-old is driven to return to his football career, not only out of passion but also due to a profound respect for the sport within his country.

    “One of the key motivators for me has been witnessing our teams, particularly the national team, compete, even though they have not advanced far despite numerous opportunities. This has inspired me deeply; I often find myself imagining being part of that experience. I truly believe I can achieve it,” Baegeni expressed.

    “I frequently encounter my supporters, who encourage me to train and rejoin clubs, aiming to make my way back to the national team. I consistently reassure them that I will return to the field.

    “My interest and talent in football are precious to me, and I cannot afford to let them fade. Each time I watch soccer and see our teams fall short in major tournaments; it reignites my desire to play. When I observe players missing opportunities, I often think to myself how I wish I could be there,” he remarked.

    Throughout 2023, Baegeni dedicated much of his time at home, participating in organized fundraising events whenever possible.

    “I typically engage in training with my peers to sustain my passion for the sport. Despite my injury, I have made a mindful effort to participate in the Easter and Christmas games. Having now surpassed a year since my injury, I believe I have made a recovery and am eager to return to the field.

    “I am determined to preserve my skills and remain committed to my goals. Currently, I am awaiting the commencement of the league while continuing my training regimen at home. At this moment, I feel well and confident in my recovery. Additionally, my part-time role as a security officer helps keep me occupied during my time in Honiara, while also providing financial support for my family,’’ he said.

    Baegeni previously manned at Finance before being transferred to Central Plaza, where he has now been for three months. His tenure at finance lasted nearly nine months. He joined the Coast Watcher security firm in 2024.

    He mentioned, “My part-time job is specifically to support my parents, as I am the only son in the family.”

    Upon his return, he intends to await invitations from clubs, as he prefers not to impose himself on any particular team, although he is open to joining any club that expresses interest in him.

    While working in security, several individuals approached him, inquiring about his potential return to play. He took the opportunity to explain his situation and expressed his intention to resume playing football.

    When asked about his return to the field, he stated, “At this moment, my focus is on regaining my fitness and ensuring that I am fully recovered, so that I am prepared when the opportunity arises.”

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    Geotech studies on Bina project completes

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    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    Geotech studies on the Bina Harbor Tuna Processing Plant Project in Malaita province has successfully completed.

    The activity was funded by New Zealand and other donors and Malaita provincial government is grateful to witness progress on the national project.

    “The geotech studies has successfully completed for Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant Project,” Premier Asilaua said.

    Addressing the full assembly on Monday 13 January in Auki, he highlighted the importance of the project in spite of delay over the past years.

    “This national project remains important to our domestic economy in spite of the delays over the years.

    “We must strongly advocate for it to progress in the implementation. Since it will provide more employment opportunities and reduce high urban migration.

    “It will boost a productive private sector with commercial value chains in marketing niches to improve our revenue sources.

    “It will stimulate economic growth through social and resource sectors with better roads, water supply, power energy supply and education services,” he said.

    Asilaua assured the commitment of his government to render full support behind this very important economic project for Malaita province.

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    MEHRD EYES INCLUSIVE EDUCATION

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    Education minister highlights commitment to inclusive education

    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    EDUCATION Minister Tozen Leokana says the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) is committed to advancing inclusive education across the country.

    Speaking at the Stronger Education Together (SET) program signing last week, Leokana emphasized that inclusive education ensures all children, regardless of ability or background, have equal access to quality learning opportunities.

    He acknowledged the challenges faced by children with special needs or disabilities, including inaccessible infrastructure and a shortage of teachers with specialized skills to meet diverse learning needs.

    Leokana expressed optimism that the recent partnership between Australia and the Solomon Islands will help address educational inequality, the shortage of qualified teachers, and improve school infrastructure and resources.

    “ I would like to express our heartful thanks to the Government and people of Australia. I express my enthusiasm about the future opportunities the SET program will bring and reaffirm the commitment of my ministry to work together for the betterment of education in the Solomon Islands,” he added.

    Long overdue reform cannot be ignored

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    By Loretta B Manele

    A long overdue piece of reform that must be embarked on and cannot continue to be ignored is the Parliament Autonomy Bill.

    Matthew Wale, Leader of Opposition highlighted this during the Sine Die Motion in parliament last month.

    He stressed that the executive government cannot continue to ignore this matter.

    “A long overdue piece of reform we must embark on is the Parliament Autonomy Bill, the executive government cannot continue to ignore this matter”

    He said they must look into enhancing the capacity of parliament to deliver on its core responsibilities and the bill would enable this to happen.

    Wale also suggested that a standing calendar would be useful so that they and staff throughout the government and in parliament can work throughout set sitting schedules.

    He mentioned that parliament’s independence is continuously subjected to the executive government’s control of financial and human resources.

    Wale furthered that these are critical impediments that must be removed to enhance parliament’s independence.

    BUDGET PENDING

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    Malaita Provincial Youth Desk is awaiting approval of the revised 2024/2025 budget.

    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    The Malaita Provincial Youth Desk is awaiting the 2024/2025 revised budget to implement its programs for youth in Malaita province.

    The Coordinator of the Malaita Youth Desk, Mr. Francis Samo, said yesterday that the province is waiting for the assembly to pass the budget.

    He stated that the youth division, like other divisions under the Malaita province, is waiting for the budget to implement their programs.

    “Although the budget allocation for youth programs will not accommodate all activities, the division is determined to support youth in the province.

    “Youth programs range from social activities to income-generating projects that engage and empower youth in meaningful activities,” Samo said.

    He recalled important programs such as kava training and planting, where his office had involved youth in the province.

    Samo added that there were also other social programs designed to engage youth and prevent them from participating in undesirable activities.

    He highlighted that the most populous age group in Malaita province is youth, and addressing all their issues is challenging.

    Samo expressed gratitude for the support from donor partners and the national government in empowering youth in the province.

    He stated that his division will continue to work with donor partners to support youth programs and activities in the province.

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