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SPORTS FOR ALL

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NSC secures Play for Equity grant to expand inclusive sport opportunities

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The National Sports Council (NSC) has secured funding from the Australian Government to support inclusive sporting activities that aim to increase participation for women, girls and people with disabilities in Solomon Islands.

Through the Team Up initiative, NSC has been awarded AUD15,000 under the Play for Equity grant to host inclusive open day events at its sporting facilities.

In a media release issued by NSC, the Council said it was “selected as a recipient of the Australian Government’s Play for Equity grant, a Pacific-wide initiative aimed at advancing gender and disability inclusion through sport and play.”

The Play for Equity fund forms part of Team Up’s wider programme supporting sport-for-development efforts across the Pacific.

Since having been launched in 2022, the grant scheme has supported more than 60 organisations and individuals across countries including Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Kiribati and Samoa.

NSC said the funding will allow them to work alongside disability organisations and community leaders to organise inclusive open day activities, with the possibility of extending the programme to provincial areas if resources allow.

“The initiative aims to create opportunities for people of all abilities to participate in sport, recreation and play within a welcoming and inclusive environment,” the Council stated.

According to NSC, the activities are also intended to provide a pathway for some participants to eventually pursue elite sport opportunities.

The Council further acknowledged that barriers faced by people with disabilities in accessing sport are not only physical but also social.

“Barrier faced by people with disabilities in accessing sport are not only physical but also social, including perceptions around participation and inclusion,” the statement said, adding that the programme seeks to help shift attitudes and promote equal sporting opportunities.

NSC also expressed appreciation to the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for supporting inclusive sport development in Solomon Islands.

Further details on the open day events are expected to be announced soon.

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Campus spirit shines as football, volleyball and netball bring faculties together in energetic Easter showdown

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 BY RICHARD MENANOPO

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Kukum campus came alive with cheers, laughter and competitive spirit this week as the SINU Inter-Faculty Easter Games concluded successfully on Tuesday evening with prize presentations and celebrations.

The two-day sporting event, which kicked off on Easter Monday, brought together students from across the university’s faculties to compete in football, volleyball and netball, turning the campus grounds into a lively arena of youthful energy.

By the time the final whistle blew on Tuesday evening, it was DFL UPC that proudly walked away with the football championship trophy and a $2000 cash prize, while SINUSA finished second with $1500, and Nursing and Public Health secured third place with $1000.

Adding prestige to the closing ceremony was the presence of Director of the National Training Unit (NTU) under SITESA, John Inomae, who presented the trophies and prizes to the winning teams.

From the sidelines to the finals, the tournament drew a strong turnout of students who packed the venue, cheering loudly for their faculties in what organisers described as more than just a sporting contest.

Event organiser and SINU Student Association (SINUSA) President Father Ashley Tome said the Easter Games were primarily about bringing students together.

“The purpose of hosting this inter-faculty tournament or Easter Games is just to provide a time for the university and faculty students to interact and know each other, and be part of the games as a celebration for this Easter session,” Father Tome said.

He explained that participation was strong, particularly in football where 12 teams representing the university’s six faculties took part.

“For soccer we have 12 teams. There are six university faculties and each faculty has two teams,” he said.

The event, he added, is an annual initiative organised by SINUSA, that aims to strengthen unity among students while encouraging a healthy balance between academic life and sports.

“This Easter sporting event brings unity amongst students, staff, and also brings students from each faculty to know each other well,” Father Tome said.

While the tournament lasted only two days, he admitted organising such events was not without challenges.

“Sometimes we need more time to organise and to make students come together is a little bit challenging. You have to commit your time as a leader for the success of such an event,” he said.

Among the biggest celebrations of the evening came from the DFL UPC football team, whose captain Samuel Saefafia credited teamwork and determination for their victory.

“The main thing that led us to victory today was our teamwork of togetherness—staying connected together.

“Even though we do not have a coach, we always listened to our senior players in the team,” Saefafia said.

Saefafia said the win meant a great deal to the team, especially after falling short in previous competitions.

“We have been into some previous games but we always lose, but now we became the champions,” he said.

Vice President of SINUSA and sponsor representative Ken Maedala said the enthusiastic turnout demonstrated the power of sport in strengthening relationships among students.

“Sports unite students together. In class students have different sessions and lectures, but when it comes to sports, they interact and recognise each other well,” Maedala said.

He added that the event also encourages students to stay active.

“One of the main aims of organising such sporting events is to keep students fit and active from hours of sitting in class,” he said.

Organisers have already set their sights on expanding the event next year, with plans to improve uniforms and potentially introduce more sporting opportunities.

For now, however, the campus victory chants belong to DFL UPC, whose players and supporters celebrated late into the evening—proving that sometimes the best classroom lessons happen not inside lecture halls, but on the playing field.

Photo credit: Richard Menanopo

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MP Wasi acknowledges China’s support for rural development

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Member of Parliament for East Makira constituency, Franklyn Wasi, has expressed his gratitude to the People’s Republic of China for its ongoing support through the Rural Sustainable Development Program (RSDP) in his constituency.

The latest contribution comes in the form of Outboard Motor (OBM) boats. Of the targeted 30 boats, 24 have already been successfully delivered.

In a recent social media post, MP Wasi thanked China for its continued partnership with East Makira.

“To date, 24 boats have been successfully completed, with six more to go to reach our total target of 30.

“This steady progress demonstrates the effectiveness of our partnership and the tangible impact of this program on our communities,” he wrote.

He also confirmed that 30 engines were procured and collected from Y-Sato in February this year, ensuring that all necessary equipment is in place for the full completion of the project.

MP Wasi highlighted that this initiative reflects the constituency’s strong commitment to supporting rural communities.

“This progress reflects our shared commitment to strengthening rural livelihoods, improving transportation access, and expanding economic opportunities for the people of East Makira.

“We deeply value this partnership and look forward to the successful completion of the program and its lasting benefits for our communities,” he said.

The constituency office will soon advise on arrangements for transporting the boats and other items to the constituency.

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Malaita council of women holds AGM 

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Malaita Provincial Council of Women held its Annual General Meeting on March 25 in the Bahai area of Auki town.

The AGM focused on important tools that will enhance their work in the rural communities. 

President Rebecca Awa said the meeting aims to build the capacity of women’s leadership and governance, as well as the development of work plans, budgets, financial reporting, narratives and monitoring.

She said that through the meeting, its members can have access to gain and be equipped with essential knowledge and information related to their work. 

“We have noticed and understand that not everyone will have the knowledge of what they are doing. So, with this, it helps and supports us to know more.

“Also, we have stakeholder sessions that allow us women to reach out and build our connections to what is related to our context,” she said.

She said that through that journey, they can access opportunities available and be supported by their stakeholders.

Meanwhile, Awa said that during their AGM, they also finalised two resolutions that can support them.

She said that through these resolutions, governance at the ward level will be strengthened, and there will be a better link with the communities.

“So far, we have reached two resolutions. The first is the affiliation of community groups with the Ward Council of Women, and secondly, the Ward Council will affiliate with the Malaita Provincial Council of Women.

“This will strengthen governance at the ward level and improve linkages within the community,” she said.

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GNUT urges SOEs to work together 

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The Government of National Unity and Transformation (GNUT) is urging stakeholders to work side by side with a common goal to ensure the completion of road projects in Malaita Province. 

Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele made this statement during a courtesy visit from the Malaita Provincial Government to his office on Tuesday, April 7. 

The courtesy visit focused on the relocation issues of infrastructure to allow road construction works to progress according to the scheduled timeframe. 

A statement from the Prime Minister’s office said that collective vital actions and efforts are needed among the state-owned enterprises so that the road project remains on track. 

“The Auki Road is a priority infrastructure investment for Malaita Province and the country. It is important that all stakeholders work in a coordinated and timely manner to support its completion,” Manele said.

The Prime Minister directed that relevant stakeholders like Solomon Power, Solomon Water, and Solomon Telekom Company Limited need to convene to address outstanding issues and ensure the project is moving forward.

Manele said that the Government remains committed to the project timelines and will make sure that its deadlines are met, though there are delays encountered.

In the meantime, community leaders of Malaita Province appreciate and thank Prime Minister Manele for his commitment and for prioritising developments for Malaita Province.

A Kolofe community elder, Elison Labufunu, said it was the Manele-led government that brought development to the shores of Malaita Province.

“The previous government didn’t prioritise Malaita like GNUT. This is the time for Malaita to develop, and our leaders should support the GNUT government,” he said.

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Auki customers impacted by power blackout

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

Public, businesses and road construction in Auki, Malaita Province, were impacted by a three-hour power blackout yesterday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

The power blackout was caused by a CCECC excavator that hit the power pole next to the Geiruts Motel and Malaita Institute in Auki town. 

According to an eyewitness, Samo Sari, the CCECC excavator was on a road construction project when it hit the power pole.

He said that as a result, the whole of Auki town was disrupted and without power for three hours, affecting and causing inconvenience to all classes of offices. 

“It disrupted the bank system and the network was down, affecting those who wanted to make withdrawals and deposits or access digital banking, who had to wait for the power to resume.

“Also, at our offices, the power disrupted our officers who work tirelessly and have not completed their work for today.

“Our network was also disrupted, affecting those businesses and individuals who used mobile devices and computers for sending messages,” he said.

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U-14 school football championship league underway

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BY TONY IROGA

Honiara Football Association (HFA) is hosting the Under-14 school Soccer Championship League at Lawson Tama Stadium which commenced on Tuesday and will end today, April 9.

More than 20 schools in Honiara are participating in the U-14 school football championship league.

The event is set to select good players to play for the under 14 team which will be playing in the SAFE UMI play programme to be hosted in June this year.

According to HFA president Mr Trevor the event is usually held each year before the SIFF UMI play programme each year through schools.

Today Coronation School will meet Mbua Valley school team in the second semi-final match followed by a grand-final match.

In an interview with Island Sun yesterday Coronation School team coach Rickson Iro shared his excitement and hope for his school team to win all their games.

“The tournament gives opportunities for talented kids to showcase themselves,” he said.

He said his team trained hard for the tournament and are looking forward to win the U-14 Championship League.

“Although I don’t have much time to prepare, I have been putting on a good show for my team since the tournament started,” he said.

He looks forward to the semi- final game today against Mbua Valley school and is also prepared for the grand-final match.

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PNGID highlights importance of leadership transition, good governance

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BY JUNELYN KELLY

The President of the Papua New Guinea Institute of Directors has highlighted the importance of leadership transition and good governance during the opening of the directorship training programme yesterday.

Speaking at the event, Clarence Hood said that under the Institute’s constitution, board members are limited to serving five consecutive terms, after which they must step aside to allow new leadership.

He said this practice promotes accountability and strengthens governance within organisations.

Mr Hood shared his professional background as managing director of the investment promotion authority, an agency responsible for company registration and promoting Papua New Guinea as an investment destination.

He emphasised that the training is conducted in the spirit of strengthening governance and leadership capacity.

The President expressed appreciation for the collaboration with the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) in organising the programme.

He concluded by stressing the importance of good governance, saying it builds strong boards, and strong boards build strong nations.

Over the three days training, participants will cover key topics including governance fundamentals, financial literacy, risk management, and board excellence, tailored to the local context.

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SICCI launches directors training programme

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The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea Institute of Directors (PNGID) officially launched a three-day directorship training programme yesterday.

This marks a significant milestone for leadership development in the country.

After months of preparation and collaboration, the programme is now ready to contribute to strengthening leadership and governance capacity in the Solomon Islands.

Speaking at the official opening, SICCI Chairlady Namoi Kaluae welcomed partners, including President of the Papua New Guinea Institute of Directors, Clarence Hood, along with team member Neville Beren and facilitator Christine Sambo.

Ms Kaluae also acknowledged the 32 participants in the inaugural cohort, representing government, state-owned enterprises, educational institutions and the private sector.

She said the strong level of participation highlights a growing recognition across both public and private sectors of the need to invest in leadership development and governance.

Kaluae said the programme aims to equip leaders with the skills to navigate complex challenges, including evolving economic and business environments, regulatory reforms, market pressures, technological changes, and global uncertainties.

She said strengthening leadership will help ensure institutions remain resilient while also taking advantage of opportunities for growth, innovation, and partnerships.

“Leadership is the engine of economic progress and national development,” she said.

She added that strong leadership builds resilient organisations, fosters investor confidence, and ensures institutions consistently deliver value to stakeholders.

Kaluae said the directorship training programme is designed to embed these values into leadership structures, enhance board performance, and drive excellence that delivers tangible results.

SICCI said it is proud to partner with the Papua New Guinea Institute of Directors in delivering the programme.

Photo credit: Junelyn Kelly

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Election counting officials for West Baegu/Fataleka undergo training 

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By RODRICK DESURI 

Auki 

The West Baegu/Fataleka Ward 5 election counting officials underwent a half-day training on Tuesday, April 7, at the Malaita Assembly conference room. 

The training was basically to teach and provide broader knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of the counting officials during the counting period of votes cast, spoiled, and unused after the polling day on April 15. 

In an interview with the Island Sun, the Election Manager for West Baegu/Fataleka Ward 5, Peter Herehura, said the training will help the counting officials to perform their duties more transparently, accountably, fairly, and accurately. 

He said they also learned how to receive polling sacks, and to record how many forms were used by the presiding officer, as well as the polling sacks.

“We are expecting seven polling sacks, and they come with other envelopes of tender papers, unused ballots, and counter foils for separation before they can go into the ballot box for verification and documentation.

“With that, it will make their work more efficient, accurate, accountable, transparent, and fast,” he said.

He said counting officials must also be careful and need to be accountable and fair in everything they do. 

“There will be the presence of counting agents; every move that the counting officials make is monitored and recorded by each counting agent,” he said. 

In the meantime, he said international and local election observers are expected to be present on polling day and day of counting votes. 

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