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Seif Ples closed

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO

THE Seif Ples Gender Based Violence (GBV) crisis accommodation and medical clinic at Rove is temporarily closed, says SAFENET.

SAFENET this week advised general public that Seif Ples centre will be temporarily closed until Saturday, June 19, 2021.

“During this time if you require emergency shelter, please contact the Police on 999 or go to Christian Care Center. If you need medical help for sexual assault, rape or sexual and reproductive health, please contact Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA) or go to nearest Honiara City Council Clinic and the National Referral Hospital.”

Seif Ples Gender-Based Violence Crisis and Referral Centre offers a comprehensive first response service for victim-survivors of sexual and gender-based violence in the Solomon Islands. The vision of Seif Ples is to build a future Solomon Islands free from sexual and gender-based violence.

SAFENET is a referral network of gender-based violence support services, coordinated by the Ministry Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs. It aims to ensure that survivors of gender-based violence can access the support services they need, when they need it.

SINU to enroll students on unit basis next semester

Written by
Brian Lezutuni
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Kukum campus of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU).

BY JARED KOLI

The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) will enroll students on units basis and not on entire programme basis, effective next semester.

This is one of the new resolutions the university announced on Monday.

The University Senate and Senior Management Committee told Island Sun that the approach will change the way SINU enrolls students, which was previously based on programmes.

“Starting next semester, we will enroll students on unit bases and not the entire programme bases. Previously, we enroll students based on their programs; each programs have fixed number of units to be taken each semester by the students.

“For instance, Diploma of Nursing programme have five units for students to take in a semester in order to graduate in three years. The fee per semester is $9,000, which is a fixed fee.

“From next semester, students will only enroll on units they can afford to pay. Therefore, a nursing student can enroll with only two units and it will cost him/her only $3600, however, he or she will not graduate in three years, it might take a bit longer,” The University Senate and Senior Management Committee explains in response to queries by Island Sun.

It said students that will be completing their study this semester and yet to complete their outstanding fees will not graduate.

“Students can only graduate and given their certificates after completing their outstanding fees.”

On Monday, the university announced that it permits students with outstanding fees to sit for their semester one final exams.

This was after a meeting held Thursday last week, where the committee rescind its resolution of May 26, 2020, and endorsed new resolutions that will be applied to students with outstanding fees. 

The new resolutions are;

  1. Permit students with outstanding fees to sit for their Semester 1 – 2021 final exams.
  • The results will be withheld until all fees are fully paid.
  • Distance Flexible Learning (DFL) students must pay their fees in full before sitting their exams.
  • Effective Semester 2 – 2021, the enrollments will only be considered and endorsed upon the payment of outstanding fees.
  • Effective Semester 2 – 2021. The enrolments will be based on paid units.

Gov’t committed $12.6m for CT Scan construction

Written by
Mavis Podokolo
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0
CT building where all CT activities will be undertaken, near completion.

BY MAVIS N PODOKOLO

Government has committed $12.6millon towards the Computer Tomography (CT) scan project to foot the expenses under its budget allocation for 2021, says Ministry of Health and Medical Services.

Ministry of health in a statement yesterday said this sum was allocated to the CT scan project in response to the Parliamentary Health and Medical Services meeting discussion on the need to have $11 million to complete the project.

“The government had already committed $12.6 million to foot the expenses under its budget allocation to heath for 2021,” the ministry of health statement said.

The statement said in overseeing the management of the CT project the responsibility is now given to CT project steering Committee and with the Head of Radiology Department, National Referral Hospital, as the project manager.

The statement adds that the company contracted for the CT building component is Hatanga LTC whose duration is ending soon as work is completed.

“All these completed, will enable the commissioning of CT building and all the equipment and accessories for use. CT service opening is expected around November, 2021,” the health statement said.

The statement adds that there have been some delays and this is mainly due to the 2021 budget approval.

“Payment process only commenced after the budget was approved by parliament this year and health is following closely with the payment process.”

World Vision supports leadership training for Malaita youths.

Written by
Samie Waikori
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Youth participants, guests and staff of World Vision Auki office after the official opening of the Youth Leadership Forum on Monday this week in Auki.

BY SAMIE WAIKORI

Auki

YOUTHS from communities on East and North Malaita will complete a three days Youth Leadership Forum in Auki today (Wednesday).

A total of 44 youths from 20 satellite communities of World Vision Solomon Islands (WVSI) participated in the forum.

It was funded under the New Zealand aid and facilitated by WVSI through its Youth and Social Entrepreneurship Development Project (YSED) for Malaita province.

Some of the youth participants attending the training.

Manager of Youth and Social Entrepreneurship Development Project under WVSI Auki office, Robert Firidede explained that the YSED project consisted of two components; economic and social components.

He said under the social component like the economic component, WVSI will work with national the government, provincial government, NGOs and other partners to support youth development.

Guests present during the opening ceremony of Youth Leadership forum in Auki.

“Basically, under this social component, WVSI is working to support youths by building their capacity and ability to recognise their potentials to carry out leadership roles in their communities,” Firidede said.

He said the theme of the training is “Youth in Leadership” and implies that youths are in the process of becoming leaders or already leaders in the respective areas of community service in their communities.

Manager of Youth and Social Entrepreneurship Development Project under WVSI Auki office, Mr Robert Firidede is deliver his remark during the opening of Youth Leadership Forum in Auki on Mond

“The forum is like coaching or adding some other ingredients to the leadership knowledge and skills they already have and portrayed in their communities.

“So, during the forum, they expect to learn on a series of trainings that relates or is centred on the theme “Youth in Leadership,” Firidede said.

He said after the training WVSI expects participants to emerge and support community leaders on programs and activities within their communities.

Firidede said this is the ultimate goal of the training to equip youths so they can support in leadership responsibilities in their communities.

Meanwhile, WVSI Operation Manager, Ms Kathy Sevese Havea called on youth participants to make great use of the training and importantly to support their communities with what they have learned.

Operation Manager of WVSI, Ms Kathy Sevese Havea is making her speech during the opening of the Youth Leadership training in Auki on Monday.

She said World Vision is a child focused organization and it’s important what they learn will help to impact life of children in their communities to come up positive ones in the future.

Havea thanked the youths on behalf of their communities for participating in the forum and reiterated her call to them to support their communities with what they’ll learn from the training.

Wale calls for halt to mining

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Press Release
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A recent mining exploration on Isabel Province. Photo by Axiom Mining Solomon Islands.

LEADER of Opposition Matthew Wale calls for a moratorium to be placed on all forms of mining in the country until proper management and regulatory systems are put in place to safeguard our people and our non- renewable resources.

The call follows recent media reports revealing the cancellation of registered titles to all Rennell bauxite lands and the emergence of a fresh cat and mouse race between APID and Nickel Enterprise SI Ltd (NESI) in respect of the same mineral rights.

Wale points out that this latest development is a clear revelation of the escalating problems that had plagued this industry for years fuelled by white collar corruption and lack of government political direction. 

“It is a clear mix of a fall out from previous dealings rigged with controversy and evidence of inadequacies in the current administrative system to stop opportunists easily passing-off as reputable mining companies,” Wale said in a statement yesterday.

“In that particular case indications are, NESI is but a surrogate of Bintan Mining (SI) Ltd whose shareholders may well be the architect of a scheme designed to clear off APID and gain the vacant mineral rights through NESI,” he added.

“Regrettably, recent history in this sector suggests that competency, reputation, financial and technical capacity which are key prerequisite considerations for eligibility now appear lacking in decision making relating to the granting of mineral rights.”

Wale says this has unfortunately led to an influx of undesirable overnight fly-by opportunist companies easily getting in and cementing their grip on top government officials to secure control over the extractive industry, adding that this is evident in the current uncontrolled and controversial mining operations.

“The current problems are just tarnishing Solomon Islands’ reputation as an attractive investment destination for reputable companies leaving us at the mercy of opportunist operators’ hell bent on serving their own selfish interests.  

“The cycle must be stopped now before our non-renewable resources are squandered right before our eyes.

“I therefore call on the Government to quickly suspend all pending applications and to immediately impose a moratorium to remain in force until all applicable laws are reviewed and required level of improvements are added to enhance our regulatory and enforcement capacities and systems.

“I also call on the Government to cause a thorough investigation into any suspected cases of malpractice throughout the years and to deal with any officer who is involved with companies perpetuating the problems we currently have.”

RSIPF presents certificate of appreciation to SIPSP advisor.

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Commissioner Mangau handing over the Certificate of Appreciation to Advisor Woods

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has presented a certificate of appreciation to Solomon Islands Police Support Programme (SIPSP) Advisor Michael Woods after serving two years with the RSIPF.

The certification took place yesterday at Rove police headquarters.

SIPSP is funded by the Government of New Zealand and implemented by the New Zealand Police Service.

Advisor Woods arrived in the Solomon Islands in June 2019 and took up post as the Team Leader for the SIPSP. He worked with the RSIPF executive on the development and implementation of the Crime Prevention strategy.

During his time in the country, he visited many communities and worked with a number of police officers in the RSIPF.

He was very impressed with the level of professionalism and engagement displayed by RSIPF officers. The level of engagement RSIPF officers involved is much appreciated to protect Solomon Islands from COVID-19.

Advisor Woods says he was so privileged to have an opportunity to develop his own policing skills in his various interactions. 

“I have learnt much from Solomon Islands colleagues and the way they carry out their duties particularly regarding community engagement.

“I would like to thank those who displayed kindness and support during my time here. I will always have fond memories of my time in the Hapi Isles.”

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Operations Ms Juanita Matanga says, “On behalf of the Commissioner and RSIPF Executive I would like to thank you for the contribution you had made to the RSIPF during your time in Solomon Islands.”

“On behalf of ranks and files of the RSIPF I would like to sincerely thank you for providing essential support to the Office of the Commissioner of Police during your time as advisor. Your contribution on capacity development within RSIPF is highly commended.”

SIPSP Advisor Woods was presented with a Letter of Appreciation, an International Law Enforcement Cooperation medal and an RSIPF plaque.

SIPSP Advisor Woods will return to New Zealand as he has now completed his term with the programme.

–POLICE MEDIA

Police farewells retiring officer

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PPC Riolo presented certificate of appreciation to SSgt Fioga during the farewell ceremony

THE Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) has farewelled an officer from its Malaita Branch who retired last week.

The officer, Senior Sergeant Alfred Fioga was one of the retirees due for retirement in April 2021 and was farewelled by his work colleagues at the Malu’u Police Station in North Malaita.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Malaita Province, Chief Superintendent Stanley Riolo said it is a great honour to speak on behalf of the RSIPF Executive in farewelling and wishing “our retired officer all the best in the next chapter in his life.

“Today we recognise one officer who has served in the force with long standing distinction and pride over many years throughout the course of his career.

“He served for 35 years.”

Riolo said the officer was presented with a retirement certificate and plague in commemoration of his service to the force and people of Solomon Islands.

“When you look back at the history of this organisation it is built on the hard work, determination and the courage of officers like those who are retiring. On behalf of your RSIPF colleagues across the country and the people of Solomon Islands, we congratulate you and salute you for your service.”

In his speech, retired SSgt Fioga says, “I am grateful to be part of the RSIPF organisation. Though I am retiring from the police, I will continue to support RSIPF.

“I am now part of the outside community and we will work together with members of our communities to ensure we have peace in our country.”

–POLICE MEDIA

Red Cross marks blood donor day

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Press Release
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A Red Cross Youth Volunteer and Blood Donor Steve Toata, giving awareness and testimony on his experience as a voluntary blood donor.

Solomon Islands Red Cross Society marked the World Blood Donor Day on Monday, June 14 with the theme “Give Blood and Keep the World Beating” with a focus on youths.

The World Blood Donor Day is a day set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Federation of Red Cross (IFRC) to highlight the crucial role of voluntary blood donation in the health and care of people everywhere.

In Solomon Islands, the Solomon Islands Red Cross Society’s voluntary non-remunerated blood donation programme working in partnership with the Ministry of Health is an important programme.

“As is shown in the trend of voluntary blood donation data in 2020, the annual required amount of donated blood for those who are sick, undergoing theater operation or during emergencies is around 7,000 units of blood.

“Solomon Islands is yet to meet the full demand as annual voluntary blood donations only reach around 3,088, which is 3,000 less,” said Abana Kwalagau, a lab technician at the National Referral Hospital’s Blood Bank.

He also mentioned that with this trend, there is a risk of facing problems if it continues.

“We need 20 voluntary blood donors to give blood each day to be able to meet daily demand for blood. The trend we are having at the moment is not helpful, in that, if there is a situation such as a major disaster or health emergency that requires immediate supply of blood to address, the National Referral Hospital would not be able to cope.

“This is because we only have a small number of volunteer blood donors who can come forward to assist in donating blood to help others,” Mr Kwalagau added.

“Solomon Islands Red Cross, under its partnership with the Ministry of Health, continues to make awareness in schools, offices and communities for people to be aware of the importance of donating blood but to also call on them to come forward to actually donate,” says Sam Wa’aria, Solomon Islands Red Cross Society’s Voluntary Non-Remunerated Blood Donation Programme officer.

He also highlighted that while the National Society continues to make public awareness, there remains a lot more challenges to overcome.

One of the many challenges is the fear of the needle, which has a pain that goes away in less than a minute after it is inserted.

“We continue to make awareness in schools, offices and communities regarding what voluntary blood donation is and its importance in saving lives. This is regardless of the challenges we have met especially with those such as the fear of needle which is often overcome by voluntary blood donors after they have donated blood for the first time.”

The World Blood Donor Day was marked with an awareness at the Honiara City Council front car park area.

—SIRC PRESS

Jericho-2 gets awareness on waste management

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Jericho community give token of appreciation to faciliators by Joe atoa

THE community of Jericho 2, west Kola Ridge, Honiara, held a waste management awareness programme on Saturday, June 12.

The awareness was led by the Hawks Consultancy and Sirubai Voko Tribe Association, from 4pm – 9pm.

A total of 102 participants attended the programme consisting of 32 women, 28 men and 52 children.

Jericho youths during clearning up session _ by Joe Atoa

The activity was supported by small grant program under Globalgreen Grant with specific focus on empowering organised communities involved in environmental justice, climate change, food security and biodiversity.

Jericho 2 was fortunate to be a recipient of this small grant with a focus on environmental justice in relation to waste management. 

This is one of the pressing issue for urban communities especially in settlements where there is no road service to install or access Honiara City Council rubbish bins.

However, through this small grant project, the community managed to install its own public bins and hoping to get access to road so that rubbish can be disposed of at the right place.  

Mr Collin and Mr Kenneth Vuki were invited by the committee to implement an awareness activity under this project based on waste management, and sharing practical example from similar community groups.

Women participants during the awareness program

The women and girls from the community expressed their gratitude to the facilitators for sharing example from Plastic-wise Gizo which shows that plastic and ropes can be turned into economic items by making handcrafts.

The chairman of J2CDT Mr Steven Bunabo acknowledged the knowledge and experience shared by the facilitators which empowers community members to explore new creative and innovative ideas to utilise waste materials such as plastic, ropes and tins into something productive.

Joe Atoa highlighted that the community have learnt about new knowledge on waste management and how it can lead to a healthy environment and healthy living in regards to ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ of different wastes such as plastic and ropes.

Chairman Mr Steve Bunabo welcoming members to the presentation _ by Joe Atoa

A committee member, Mr Rex Oiramo highlighted that the community members are excited about the community engagement and the initiative that continues to progress from one stage to another. He added that a lot of new knowledge has been added to our people through awareness and participation of members in the current waste management activities that was funded by Globalgreen Grant. 

The community hopes to get the remaining activity done and will officially launch the newly formed association together with the current waste management project. The committee will send invitation to relevant stakeholders and donors to witness the community initiative later this year.

By Henry Kaniki

Solomon Water commissions new borehole

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SOLOMON Water recommissioned its White River borefield on Thursday 25 May 2021.

  This project, commenced in 2019 and included the rehabilitation of two boreholes and the pump station in White River, some of which were extensively damaged during the tension period.

 This project cost was over $7m and was fully funded by Solomon Water to ensure facilities are upgraded and meet growing customer needs.

The project was initiated to enable Solomon Water to produce more water for Honiara and in particular assist with production when the Kongulai and other water sources at Kombito and Rove were forced to shut due to dirt carried in the streams by heavy rain. 

Illegal logging and sawmilling in the Kohove and Konguali water catchments since 2019 has had a $30 m cash impact on Solomon Water and continues to affect costs and water safety for our customers.

During the commissioning ceremony the Minister for Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification Bradley Tovosia said:

“The Government appreciates the huge investment that Solomon Water is undertaking to upgrade the Honiara Water Supply infrastructures and acknowledged the support of the development partners assistance from the Asian Development Bank, World Bank and European Union.”

Tovosia said that the national government is willing and ready to support Solomon Water in any of its strategic undertakings. 

Solomon Water Board Chairman Carson Korowa said:

“The completion of this project is another milestone for Solomon Water in ensuring the safe and reliable delivery of water to its customers.

“The completion of this project will see that the customers having more water during shut down of Kongulai.”

 He further acknowledged the community members and call on public to respect Solomon Water property.

Other major Solomon Water projects include Kongulai Water treatment plant, Honiara water supply reservoirs and trunk mains as well as projects in Tulagi, Munda, Gizo and Noro ready for construction in the next few months.

 Some projects will not be able to proceed at this stage however due to insufficient funding.

—Solomon Water

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