BY TONY IROGA
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has secured a new grant from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to refurbish its Department of Fisheries Complex at the Ranadi Campus, strengthening facilities for fisheries education.
The grant agreement, worth up to US$54,548, was signed on Wednesday between SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau and KOICA Fiji Country Director Han Kyul Sam Cho.
According to a SINU statement, the funding will support the renovation of the Fisheries Department building under the Support for the Establishment and Capacity Building of Fisheries Studies in Solomon Islands project.
Professor Aqorau said the agreement reflects the strong partnership between Solomon Islands and the Republic of Korea.
“Today’s signing reflects the deep friendship and enduring partnership between the Republic of Korea and Solomon Islands. Through KOICA, the Government and people of Korea have consistently invested in strengthening higher education and human resource development in our country,” he said.
He said the refurbishment will provide students and staff with a modern learning environment that better supports practical training, research and innovation in fisheries.
“We are delighted that KOICA has once again demonstrated its confidence in SINU by supporting the refurbishment of this important facility. When completed, our students will enjoy a refreshed and attractive learning environment,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of fisheries to the country’s economy, saying the upgraded facility will help prepare future fisheries professionals to sustainably manage Solomon Islands’ marine resources.
The statement said under the agreement, SINU will oversee the design, procurement and construction of the refurbishment works, while KOICA will provide funding and technical support.
“The Fisheries Complex was originally funded by KOICA and built by Hatanga Limited. Once the refurbishment is completed, the facility will continue to be owned and maintained by SINU,” the statement said.
Professor Aqorau thanked KOICA and the Government of the Republic of Korea for their continued support, saying SINU looks forward to expanding cooperation in education, research, innovation and capacity building.
The refurbishment project is expected to improve teaching and learning for current and future fisheries students while supporting the wider fisheries sector in Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: SINU
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