BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Islands National University (SINU) student Kevin Olea is the new student representative to the university council following the conclusion of the university-wide student election.
The official results were declared on June 11 by the appointed returning officer, Cinderella Letona, who announced that Mr. Olea secured a convincing victory with 468 votes.
Speaking to Island Sun yesterday following his victory, Mr. Olea expressed gratitude to students across all SINU campuses for placing their trust and confidence in him.
“First of all, I thank God for this victory. I also sincerely thank all students who came out to vote and exercised their democratic right through the ballot box,” Olea said.
He said the students have spoken and have chosen the leader they believe can represent their interests on the university council.
He dedicated the victory to his campaign advisory committee, describing them as a hardworking team made up of student representatives from various faculties, disciplines and programmes across the university.
“This victory belongs to my advisory committee. They contributed their time, ideas, teamwork, strategies, networks and resources to ensure the success of our campaign,” he said.
He said the result demonstrates what young people can achieve when they work together with a common purpose.
Mr. Olea said his immediate priority willalso be to work closely with the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and the Solomon Islands National University Students Association (SINUSA) to ensure students’ welfare and academic interests remain at the forefront of university decision-making.
“As the students’ representative, I will work closely with the Vice-Chancellor’s Office and SINUSA to make sure that plans and services designed for students are effectively delivered,” he said.
He said the welfare and best interests of students will remain his priority.
He also revealed plans to strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders in the education sector through a series of courtesy visits and consultations.
“We intend to engage with institutions and stakeholders that can contribute positively to student development and academic advancement,” he said.
He said this includes government ministries, educational agencies, the university council, Honiara City Council, parliamentary offices and development partners.
Mr. Olea said the student leadership also intends to engage with foreign missions and diplomatic partners based in Solomon Islands to explore opportunities that could benefit students and enhance educational outcomes.
“We appreciate the long-standing support that embassies and high commissions have provided towards education in Solomon Islands. We hope to further strengthen those relationships for the benefit of students,” he said.
Olea also acknowledged the support he received during the campaign period, including logistical assistance from Opposition Leader, Member of Parliament for North East Choiseul, Manasseh Sogavare and his associate, Julio Peregrini Gullo.
He also thanked students for believing in his leadership and paid tribute to the election officials for conducting a transparent and smooth electoral process.
“I want to thank returning officer, Cinderella Letona and the staff who worked tirelessly to ensure the election was conducted successfully. Their professionalism contributed to a credible process,” he said.
Mr. Olea concluded his remarks by assuring students that greater initiatives and opportunities lie ahead under his representation.
“Big things are coming. I look forward to working with students, university management and stakeholders to ensure that together we can achieve positive outcomes for the university community,” he said.
According to the results, Redley Sale finished second with 301 votes, followed by James Oahiru with 136 votes, Dixion Temangutaua with 122 votes, and Comfort Maeni with 46 votes.
Declaring the outcome, returning officer Cinderella Letona congratulated the successful candidate and thanked students for participating in the democratic process.
“I am pleased to officially declare the results of the student representative to the university council election, conducted in accordance with Sections 12(1)(d) and 12(2)(c) of the Solomon Islands National University Act 2012.
“I congratulate Mr. Kevin Olea on his successful election and thank all candidates and students who participated in the election process,” she said.
She said the election was conducted peacefully and in accordance with the university’s electoral procedures.
Photo: Supplied
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