BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Solomon Islands is highlighting the importance of the long-term involvement of school children in relation to the International Day of Peace celebrations.
The 2025 International Day of Peace, marked with the theme ‘Act Now for a Peaceful World’ was held at the ST Barnabas Cathedral Melanesian Hall on Friday October 10. It was hosted by the Ministry of Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs (MTGPEA).
Speaking at the event MTGPEA Permanent Secretary Lottie Vaisekavea said this initiative will be a progressive, step-by-step process that ultimately aims to influence the school curriculum through consultations with relevant authorities and stakeholders.
“Starting today, we must continue with other activities. For the next Peace Day, scheduled for 21 September 2026, we will designate that for celebration alongside other school children and national leaders,” he said.
This year, two out of six selected representatives from Honiara schools participated in a speech contest that reflects the theme in various formats and categories.
“This event will evolve into a national occasion open to all schools,” Mr Vaisekavea said.
He said that schools that achieve representation at the provincial and national levels will receive additional thematic support.
He said that this initiative will be implemented alongside the new Campus Programme of the Ministry for the period from 2026 to 2030.
He further adds that this program aims to transition the Solomon Islands from a post-conflict peace-building phase to a development-led peace-oriented approach.
“Students and school leaders, I eagerly anticipate our collaboration to advance our local actions within a global context. We are beginning modestly, but we are looking forward to the next phase. Our goal is to create a positive impact for ourselves and to make a meaningful contribution to the global peace initiative,” Vaisekavea said.
“I wish everyone success in their immediate efforts towards a peaceful world. The Solomon Islands stands in solidarity with every father, mother, and child, every school, every indigenous tribal member, and every youth who do not experience a daily peace dividend due to ongoing war, violence, and other destructive circumstances. We pray to God for mercy and grace upon them,” he concluded.
