By Loretta B Manele
Educating a child needs the collaboration of all partners.
Dr Franco Rodie, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) expressed the sentiment at a recent function hosted at Mendana Hotel to celebrate the work and end of the ESSP (Education Sector Support Program) partnership between Solomon Islands, Australia and New Zealand.
Addressing Rod Hilton, Australian High Commissioner and Rebecca Williams, Acting New Zealand High Commissioner, he said their state government partnership has been a backbone of ESSP.
Rodie voiced that their brave innovation and continued investment in children’s future have had a profound and lasting impact.
“The success stories that you have heard, whether in classrooms, through the voices of teachers, or in communities, speak volumes of your invaluable contributions.
We cherish it as a symbol of true partnership and our shared aspirations.”
Rodie also took the opportunity to thank the education ministry staff, education providers, teachers, students and all stakeholders.
“This success is yours, not mine.
It is the result of your hard work, resilience, and passion. Today we celebrate not just the program, but the spirit of cooperation and unity that defines us, one people, one country.”
It takes a whole village to educate a child and together we have made a difference.”
Rodie also gave a special acknowledgement to the ESSP Project Management Team.
“Our technical advisors, your commitment to ensuring effective communication, consultation, planning and decision-making has been invaluable.”
Rodie stated that there was an increase in local technical advisors since 2022 and this has strengthened their ability to pass practical initiatives empowering our people with skills needed to drive sustainable development, especially in the education sector.
He pointed out that one of the most significant outcomes of the ESSP has been the strengthening of its institutional capacity.
Rodie said through hands-on experience, they have honed their abilities in financial management, governance, compliance, procurement, curriculum development, professional learning and infrastructure improvement.
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