BY TONY IROGA
Government has begun work to implement its key policy priorities following the launch of its policy programme, according to Special Secretary to the Prime Minister, Celsus Talifilu.
Speaking in a Prime Minister’s Office programme aired on SIBC yesterday Mr Talifilu said the government’s priorities include free education, improved access to medicines, the establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, an Environment Fund, and greater support for indigenous businesses.
Talifilu said education remains one of the government’s highest priorities because it is the foundation for national development.
“Knowledge is the main thing. People must have the knowledge, skills and know-how to advance and develop the country,” he said.
He said the government is working towards providing free education from Early Childhood Education (ECE) through to tertiary level, adding that education should not become a barrier for families.
“Education should not be a barrier for individual families. It is an investment in our people and in the country’s future,” he said.
He acknowledged that implementing the policy will take time, with ministries now responsible for preparing detailed plans, costing programmes and developing the necessary legislation.
He said Cabinet has already endorsed the policy, giving government ministries the political mandate to begin implementation.
“The political will has been laid on the policy. Now the responsible institutions must move forward with implementation,” he said.
He added that while challenges are expected, the government remains committed to deliver its priorities.
“There will be challenges, but there will be no stops. We will continue working to ensure the policy intentions are realised,” he said.
He also said improving healthcare is another major priority, with the government committed to ensuring medicines are available in hospitals throughout the country.
He said the government is also pursuing reforms in the minerals sector to ensure the country’s natural resources generate greater benefits for Solomon Islanders.
According to Talifilu, Prime Minister Matthew Wale has instructed government officials to move quickly on implementing priority programmes.
“The difference we see at the moment is our leaders are saying, ‘Let’s do it,’ rather than just talking,” he said.
He said the Prime Minister has also stressed the importance of putting in place laws and systems that will outlast the current government’s term.
“Let’s create the environment and the legislation so that whoever comes after us can continue the work,” he said.
He said the Prime Minister’s Office will continue to work closely with government ministries to coordinate implementation, prioritise projects and ensure programmes are properly costed before funding is sought through Parliament.
The interview was aired as part of the Prime Minister’s Office public information programme on SIBC, which aims to help Solomon Islanders better understand government policies and decisions.
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