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Taekwondo team gears up for Oceania Championship in Australia

BY TONY IROGA

Athletes from the Solomon Islands taekwondo squad are intensifying preparations for the upcoming Oceania Taekwondo Championships scheduled for June this year in Australia, with training sessions now in full swing in Honiara.

Under the guidance of Joses Dudley, head coach of Dudley Taekwondo Club, athletes are undergoing rigorous daily training focused on fitness, technique, and tactical awareness.

Speaking to Island Sun yesterday Mr Dudley said his squad is working to sharpen their skills in both sparring and poomsae as they prepare to compete against top fighters from across the Oceania region.

“The preparation has been consistent, with emphasis placed on discipline, endurance, and mental readiness,” Dudley said.

He believes the team has shown strong commitment and is determined to represent the country with pride on the international stage.

“The championship, sanctioned by World Taekwondo, will bring together some of the best talents in the Pacific, providing a platform for local athletes to test their abilities and gain valuable exposure,” he said.

He said for many of the athletes, this tournament marks an important step in their sporting journey, as they aim to elevate the profile of Taekwondo in the Solomon Islands and inspire more young people to take up the sport.

He also highlighted that the club continues to welcome new members, with registration open to athletes aged 7 years and above.

He said registration at the club is set at $150 for a one-year membership, making it accessible for many young athletes looking to take up the sport.

Dudley established the club in February 2016 after graduating in Law in Vanuatu, bringing his passion for Taekwondo back home to develop young talent and promote the sport at grassroots level.

He said the club looks forward to participating in the upcoming Solomon Games, where athletes will have another opportunity to showcase their skills on the national stage.

“The club trains every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the Multi-Purpose Hall in Honiara,” he said.

He revealed that so far, around 150 fighters have successfully graded through the belt system, reflecting the steady growth and development of the club over the years.

“In a major boost for the athletes, a Taekwondo master from South Korea the birthplace of the sport is expected to visit the club from May 10 to May 16, 2026,” he said.

He added the visit is anticipated to provide high-level training, technical guidance, and inspiration for local fighters ahead of their international commitments and will award fighters gradings.

“Taekwondo is widely recognised as a complete martial art, combining physical skill, mental discipline, and strong moral values,” he said.

He highlighted that he is also the President of the Solomon Islands Taekwondo Federation, and plays a key role in organising national programs and preparing athletes for regional and international competitions.

Dudley is a respected Taekwondo master in Honiara and a leading figure in the development of the sport in the Solomon Islands.

He said Taekwondo stands out because it offers a balanced pathway for personal growth.

“Whether for competition, fitness, or self-defence, it equips individuals with lifelong skills that extend beyond the training mat,” he said.

He said Taekwondo is also an Olympic sport, having been officially included in the Olympic Games since 2000.

This recognition highlights its global importance and structured competitive system.  

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Coaching training underway at Friendship Hall

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BY TONY IROGA

Coaching training programmes are underway at the Friendship Hall, starting from Monday this week and ending tomorrow.

The training in partnership with NSC and SINU is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen coaching capacity and sports development in the country.

The coaching training programme was approved and is supported by the Oceania Sport Education program (OSEP).

According to NSC the coaching programme is split into two parts, the first two is for the community coaching and official certificate course, followed by the sports in communities’ administration (SIC) certificate course for Monday to Friday.

The week-long program continues through Friday, 24 April 2026, with participants expected to undergo further training under the Sports in Communities Administration (SIC) Certificate course, which aims to strengthen grassroots sports administration and development across Solomon Islands.

Speaking at the opening, SINU Manager of Business Investment and Commercial Services, and Acting Head of Campus Life and Welfare Division programs, Samson Bisafo, welcomed participants and highlighted the significance of the training in strengthening sports development across communities.

“This marks a key step in strengthening our capacity to support sports development in our communities,” said Bisafo.

He emphasised that equipping coaches and officials with the right knowledge, skills, and values will not only improve the quality of sport but also contribute to building healthy, vibrant, and inclusive communities across the country.

He noted that participants’ involvement reflects a shared commitment to develop stronger pathways for athletes, coaches, and sports administrators throughout the country.

“Participants were encouraged to actively engage, share experiences, and collaborate throughout the training,” he said.

He said the value of the program lies not only in the content delivered but also in the exchange of ideas among participants.

Among the participants is Cherry Moe’agoha Barosi, Head Coach of Diesel Senior Women’s Rugby Club who expressed her enthusiasm for the training and desire to improve her coaching capacity.

Barosi said the training will help her create pathways for her players and strengthen development within her club.

She also acknowledged OSEP for the opportunity and thanks the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) for selecting her to participate.

Another participant, Patricia Suiau, SINU Student Learning Services Coordinator, described the training as a valuable opportunity to pursue her passion for sport and coaching.

“I have always been passionate about sport and aspire to become a professional coach. I want to use what I learn here to support and inspire young people, especially students at SINU,” said Suiau.

Suiau highlighted the importance of integrating sports development within academic environments and expressed hope that the training will help build her confidence and skills to contribute meaningfully to student engagement.

She also acknowledged the collaboration between OSEP, SINU, and NSC, and calls for more similar initiatives to support youth development across the country.

Oceania Sport Education Programme (OSEP) Master Educator and NSC Education Manager, Atueta Balekana, also conveyed his appreciation for the National Sports Council’s (NSC) ongoing support for the successful delivery of the course and allowing it to be held at the Friendship Hall.

He acknowledges SINU for its collaboration and support and thanks OSEP for allowing NSC to host the two courses for this week.

Balekana also expressed appreciation to all 23 participants for their commitment in undertaking the training, and extends his gratitude to all NSC staff for facilitating the program.

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SINIS hosts FIBA, WABC level 1 coaching

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BY TONY IROGA

Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) is hosting the Federation International de Basketball (FIBA), World Association of Basketball Coaches (WABC) Level 1 Coaching Course in Honiara.

This brings together basketball coaches from across the region, including participants from Solomon Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.

The six-day course aims to enhance coaching standards by equipping participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, while also strengthening collaboration among coaches in the Pacific.

According to lead facilitator, Caleb Harrison the programme is designed to improve the quality of coaching at an international level.

“It is really about improving the quality of coaching internationally,” he said.

He added that they are running a six-day high-level course for coaches who already have at least five years of experience.

“This providing both classroom learning opportunities and on-court activities, as well as opportunities to connect and engage with other coaches across the region,” he said.

He explained that the course is competency-based, with a strong focus on practical application.

There is a significant practical component, with a large amount of on-court facilitation.

“Coaches are developing both their technical and interpersonal coaching skills, while also being given the opportunity to reflect on their learning each day and apply it within their own coaching context,” he said.

He noted that participants are expected to take the knowledge gained from the course back to their respective communities.

Coaches will leave this course with new knowledge that they can apply in their own environments.

“Not only will they use it within their own teams, but they can also share that knowledge with the wider coaching community in the region, helping to develop more coaches,” he said.

Solomon Islands Basketball for Good coach Winnie Laora also shared that her motivation to join the course was driven by her passion for the sport and desire to improve as a coach.

“My passion for basketball, desire to learn and grow as a coach motivated me to take part.

“I am hoping to gain a better understanding of basic basketball skills and how to teach them effectively,” she said.

She highlighted that the sessions on fundamentals and teaching methods have had a strong impact on her learning.

“One session that really stood out to me was the fundamentals and teaching methods session, which emphasizes creating a fun and engaging learning environment, especially for young and developing players,” she said.

She added that the knowledge gained will be directly applied in her coaching work within the community.

“I plan to apply the knowledge and skills from this course directly in my coaching, especially when working with youth and beginner players.

“This training will help me grow not only as a coach by improving my skills and knowledge, but also as a leader by strengthening my confidence, communication skills, and ability to guide and inspire others,” she said.

The course will conclude with practical assessments, where participants will be evaluated on their ability to deliver coaching sessions.

“On the final day, each coach will undertake a practical assessment, where they will deliver sessions on both individual and team skills,” she said.

Lead facilitator, Caleb Harrison said the practical session forms a major part of the assessment.

“We want to ensure they have the competency to coach effectively in their own environments,” he said.

He also expressed his appreciation to those who made the program possible.

“I would like to thank FIBA for the opportunity, and also the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation for putting this program together,” he said.

 A lot of work goes into organising a course like this, and I have really enjoyed being here.

He added that the people of Solomon Islands are very welcoming and warm-hearted, and he  looks forward to continuing this work in the future.

“The course is expected to further strengthen basketball development in Solomon Islands and across the Pacific region through improved coaching standards and knowledge sharing,” he said.

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Shortlands disaster committee gets support from Naha women football club

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BY TONY IROGA

The Shortlands Alu/Mono/Fauro Disaster Committee has received bags of donated items and $1,000 in cash from the Naha Women’s Football Club during a presentation held Tuesday evening at Woodford School.

The donations were received on behalf of the Committee by Fundraising Committee member, Frances Do’oro.

Do’oro expressed sincere gratitude for the timely support, noting that both the items and cash will directly assist families affected by the recent disaster.

The Shortlands community has warmly acknowledged the generosity of the Naha Women’s Football Club and extends its heartfelt appreciation for their support during this challenging time.

The Shortlands Alu/Mono/Fauro Disaster Committee continues to appeal for further donations from the public.

A second fundraising event will be held this Saturday at the National Auditorium (Outdoor Venue).

Card games start at 11am, Food sale starts at 12noon. Fundraising will conclude at 5.30pm.

Shortland islands were hard hit by Cyclone Maila with reports of unprecedented damages to homes, properties and the environment.

The Disaster Committee is made up of selfless members of the Honiara-based Shortlands community.

Their first fundraising event was successfully held last Saturday.

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The youth are our greatest treasure

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

The youth of Solomon Islands is our greatest treasure says SINU Vice Chancellor, Dr Transform Aqorau.

Delivering the “New Academic Year Opening Address” earlier this month at Panatina campus, he shed light on the importance of youth participation across all sectors.

Aqorau said with the majority of Solomon Islanders under the age of 30, we are a young nation.

He said this also means that the decisions we make today, the investments we choose to prioritise and the values that we impart will echo for decades through the lives of this youthful nation.

“Our young people brim with potential.

“I see it every day in the geekiness of students on our campuses, in the ambition of young professionals starting their careers, in the creativity of our youth groups and communities,” said Aqorau.

He emphasised that he also sees the challenges young people face which vary from shortage of jobs, the lures of harmful behaviours, to sometimes the disillusionment with the face of change.

In this regard, Aqorau said we owe our youth not only hope, but concrete pathways to help them achieve their dreams.

And while one pathway is education, mentorship and leadership are other pathways.

Aqorau said this is why SINU and other institutions must engage the youth as partners and not just as recipients.

He said that at SINU, they have made it a point to include student representation in decision-making.

“Student representatives now sit on faculty boards and pending enactment soon in the University Senate.

“Their voices matter in shaping academic life,” he said.

On a national level, Aqorau said he would like to encourage government and the private sector to also include young people in advisory roles in dialogue, noting that whether it is about climate policy or digital strategy, fresh ideas often come from the young.

He also said there is need to cultivate leadership potential in young people.

Aqorau said leadership is not reserved for those with titles as it can be practised by anyone with vision and intent.

“We must provide platforms for youth leadership. We need to include youth parliaments, student associations or community projects where they take charge. And we must model the leadership we wish them to emulate,” he said.

Aqorau also put out a message for leaders.

He said our young people learn more from what leaders do than what leaders say.

“If we see leaders behaving selfishly or without principle, they will believe that it is acceptable.

“But if we see leaders living out service leadership, acting with integrity and working hard for the people, they will be inspired to do the same,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor said as one writer noted, leading by example is perhaps the greatest lesson we can leave for future leaders.

“Let us embody this national mantra into our actions so that, convincingly, the next generation cannot help but follow suit,” he said.

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Soaki meets medical students in PNG

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BY JUNELYN KELLY

High Commissioner William Soaki has met with Solomon Islands medical students studying at the University of Papua New Guinea.

The meeting took place at the university’s Taurama Campus in Port Moresby on Saturday.

A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) yesterday said the visit focused on students’ welfare, academic progress, and their future roles in strengthening the country’s health sector.

MFAET said Mr Soaki was accompanied by Second Secretary Gwen Halemaku and staff from the Solomon Islands High Commission.

Soaki has met with 15 students enrolled in medicine, pharmaceutical science and other health-related programmes.

MFAET said the group includes both undergraduate and postgraduate students on government scholarships, as well as privately sponsored students.

Soaki said the importance of the students’ studies to play a vital role in improving healthcare services in Solomon Islands.

He said their responsibility includes addressing medical challenges and saving lives.

Soaki said students were also given the opportunity to raise concerns and challenges they face while studying abroad.

In response, Soaki assured them of the High Commission’s continued support and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to their success.

He encouraged the students to remain disciplined, respect Papua New Guinea’s laws, and follow university regulations while striving for academic excellence.

Soaki also commended the Solomon Islands Medical Students Association for promoting unity and maintaining strong engagement with the High Commission through activities such as independence celebrations.

Photo credit: MFAET

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Tourism entrepreneurs sign grant agreements under MCT–YECSI

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BY JUNELYN KELLY

The first group of young tourism entrepreneurs have officially signed grant agreements under a new partnership between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) and the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI), marking a significant step in supporting local businesses.

In a press statement, YECSI confirmed that a total of 27 recipients forming the first cohort signed their agreements yesterday in Honiara.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Director of the Tourism Division, Mr Gregory Auta’a, YECSI Vice Chairlady Mrs Esther Yates Pollard, along with members of the YECSI Secretariat and Board.

YECSI said the initiative funded for the 2025 cycle aims to support young entrepreneurs across the country in tourism-related sectors, including accommodation, food and beverage, entertainment, media, and hospitality services.

The recipients come from various provinces such as Choiseul, Western Province, Central Province, Isabel, Rennell & Bellona, Makira, and Malaita.

Speaking at the event, Director Auta’a highlighted the importance of accountability, urging recipients to use the funds for their intended purposes.

He said that the program reflects the Government’s commitment to empowering youth and strengthening the tourism sector.

Mrs. Pollard acknowledged the Government particularly the Ministry for delivering what she described as the first initiative of its kind for YECSI members.

She also paid tribute to former board members whose earlier efforts helped pave the way for the program.

She encourages recipients to view the grant as an opportunity to grow their businesses and transition into the formal economy, building on their passion and dedication.

Meanwhile, two businesses from Western Province, Ocean View and Titiuru Eco Lodge also received additional relief support to assist with damages caused by Cyclone Maila.

The second cohort of recipients is expected to sign their agreements today this week as well as the rollout of the program continues into the first quarter of the year.

Photo credit: YECSI

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Australian couple handover laptops to Su’u School 

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

An Australian couple has supported Su’u National Secondary School in Malaita Province with 17 laptops.

The donation was made possible through the support of Mount Evelyn Christian School in Australia, and was handed over to Su’u School over the weekend.

The support will empower the future of the school.

Steven Olia, thanks and appreciates the Australian family for the timely donation of impactful equipment for the school.

He said the laptops will have an impact on the teachers and students of the school in terms of enhancing opportunities with improved digital tools. 

“We would like to sincerely express our heartfelt appreciation for the generous donation of equipment, which include a total of 17 laptops, 17 computer mice, and three external keyboards over the weekend.

“These resources will have a lasting impact on our community, greatly enhancing learning opportunities for both students and staff by providing us access to digital tools and educational materials,” he said.

He said the action displayed by the Australian couple shows kindness, generosity, and commitment to making a difference in the school.

“We are deeply grateful for your kindness, generosity, and commitment which it will make a difference,” he added.

Island Sun understands that these laptops will boost the learning environment of both students and teachers as they already have a computer lab at the school.

Photo credit: FOODS Photographer

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Tabaa seaweed farmers thank MPs for support 

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Taba’a Sanctuary Seaweed Farming Association in Ward 27, West Kwaio Constituency, Malaita Province, thanks the Members of Parliament for West Are’are and West Kwaio for their support. 

The genuine support from the two MPs will help to ease the challenges faced and strengthen the association’s operations as they strive for their goals. 

In an interview with this paper yesterday, Patrick Unuka, chairman of the Taba’a Sanctuary Seaweed Farming Association said the support will go a long way in supporting the association’s operations. 

He thanked MP for West Are’are, John Maneniaru, for kick-starting the brilliant idea with a goal to support the rural coastal communities, and MP for West Kwaio, Claudius Tei’ifi, for providing a boat and materials.

“We thank MP John Maneniaru for starting this seaweed farming initiative last year, and also for his dedicated heart to continue supporting us with the required materials like ropes and floats.

“Additionally, we want to thank MP Claudius Tei’ifi for his timely support through a ray boat and $20,000 cash towards our operation,” he said.

In the meantime, he also thanks Claudius Tei’ifi for his understanding and for working together with John Maneniaru for the good of their people.

The Taba’a Sanctuary Seaweed Farming Association is a newly registered business entity that engages six zones of coastal and inland communities from Anoano and Takwaisae to Lato Ward 27.

The association is currently focusing on transplanting into their new plots and aims to sell their first dried seaweeds in October of this year.

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Globally relevant and excellent education: a top priority for SINU

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BY LORETTA B MANELE

Students deserve education that is globally relevant and excellent.

Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Vice Chancellor, Dr Transform Aqorau raised this earlier this month when he delivered the “New Academic Year Opening Address” at Panatina Campus.

He said they must raise the quality of education to meet global standards, pointing out that as we live in a connected world SINU graduates will not only be competing against each other but with graduates from Fiji, Australia and Asia.

“They deserve education that is globally relevant and excellent. That is why one of my top priorities has been academic reform and accreditation,” said Aqorau.

He said he is proud to say that SINU is on the verge of becoming an officially accredited, regulated university under our national framework.

Aqorau said with support from partners, they have reviewed and organised all their academic policies to align with international best practices.

He said they have begun a comprehensive review of all programmes to ensure that SINU qualification truly prepares students for success.

“Our ultimate goal is to become a self-accredited, accredited university in the future,” said Aqorau.

He highlighted that they are empowered to accredit their own programmes because they have proven their quality.

The Vice Chancellor said achieving such a status would be a landmark for an institution like SINU, signalling that our national university meets rigorous standards comparable to universities anywhere in the world.

He however said that accreditation is not about favour or prestige but rather, about accountability to their students in the sense of ensuring that when they hand someone a degree, it actually means that they have the skills and knowledge to excel.

“It is about making someone out of this competitive on the regional and global stage, so that a degree from SINU is held in high esteem throughout the Pacific and beyond,” he said.

Aqorau said this is how we keep our talented youths at home while also attracting international opportunity.

Moreover, he said quality education also means better education.

With this he put out the question.

“Are we teaching the subjects and skills that our country truly needs?”

Aqorau said in the past three years, they have taken steps to realign their programmes with national needs.

Giving one example, he said they have strengthened technical and vocational training by creating a dedicated technical and further education age division.

He said that not every young person will pursue an academic degree, nor should they have to.

Aqorau said trades, craftsmanship and vocational skills and practical professions be it in electricity or carpentry are critical for our economy and are honourable and needed professions to build our infrastructure and our economy.

He announced that SINU’s new Tech programme will empower youths with practical skills for immediate employment and entrepreneurship.

Aqorau said they also recognise the importance of innovation skills in the modern economy thus, with the support of UNDP, they are establishing an innovation hub on campus to nurture creativity, digital skills and start-up ideas among students.

He said they want to see the next successful Solomon Islands business ideas and social enterprises born from students’ ingenuity.

Aqorau furthered that by updating the university’s curriculum and expanding what it offers, SINU’s teaching will remain relevant to national development priorities and global trends.

He noted that graduates should not only find jobs, but should also be capable of creating jobs, leading enterprises and driving solutions far from easy.

Photo credit: Loretta B Manele

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