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SI faces challenges in meeting global education standards

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BY INDY MAEALASIA

MINISTER of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) Tozen Leokana recently highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the Solomon Islands in meeting global education standards.

His comments came during the signing of the new Stronger Education Together (SET) agreement between Australia and the Solomon Islands.

Leokana emphasized that providing access to education, ensuring quality, and achieving strong learning outcomes remain significant hurdles.

He pointed to challenges such as late school entry, a low Year 12 completion rate, inadequate school infrastructure, and persistent gender disparities.

Despite these challenges, Leokana acknowledged that the primary education sector has made significant progress, particularly in improving literacy and numeracy.

The Minister also expressed appreciation for the support from both the Australian and New Zealand governments, which have helped the MEHRD implement reforms and initiatives that have benefited teachers and the education sector as a whole.

“While we have made strides, there remain substantial challenges in meeting global education standards, especially in areas such as access, quality, and learning outcomes,” Leokana added.

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LONGEST POWER BLACKOUT

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Honiara faces extended power blackout after major fault at Lungga Power Station

BY NED GAGAHE

Honiara city experienced one of its longest power blackouts in years, following a significant fault on Solomon Power’s 11KV generator at Lungga Power Station.

The unplanned outage, which began on the evening of Thursday, January 16, 2025, left most of the city without power for over 12 hours.

The power failure, which affected the entire city, plunged Honiara into darkness from around 7:00pm Thursday until early Friday morning.

While power was restored to some areas by 7:00, several parts of the city remained without electricity until around 2:30pm on Friday.

Solomon Power responded with a public notice posted on their Facebook page, apologizing for the inconvenience caused and assuring the public that engineers were working on the issue.

The company stated: “We regret to inform you that there has been an unplanned total power blackout affecting all of Honiara due to unforeseen circumstances. Our engineers are now working on it. We apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding. We will continue to provide restoration progress via Facebook.”

As the situation persisted, Solomon Power informed residents that due to the ongoing fault at the Lungga Power Station, the city was unable to meet its full power demand.

To manage the shortfall, a load-shedding schedule was put into effect.

Solomon Power added that engineers were diligently working to resolve the fault and would continue to provide updates.

Despite assurances, many residents expressed frustration online, with some taking to Facebook to voice their concerns over the extended outage.

One of the longest blackouts in recent memory, the incident has raised questions about the city’s power infrastructure and its resilience in the face of unforeseen failures.

As of yesterday afternoon, engineers were still working on resolving the fault, and Solomon Power has yet to provide a timeline for full restoration.

Residents have been advised to treat all power lines as live at all times, as power will be restored without warning.

Solomon Power has promised to keep the public updated on their progress and thanked residents for their patience and understanding during this challenging period.

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MPG passes $34m budget

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BY SAMIE WAIKORI

The Malaita provincial assembly passes the province’s revised budget estimate of $34,330,635 for 2024/2025 financial year on Friday January 17.

The budget was brought on the floor of assembly by the provincial finance minister, Hon Lemuel Kevianga on Monday and passed after going through required processes.

Introducing the budget, Kevianga acknowledges the hard-working staff of the provincial administration for preparing the budget.

Detail of the budget estimate as follows;  

  • The Total Revenue Budget Summary is estimated at SBD $34,330,635
  • The Total Expenditure Budget Summary is estimated at SBD $34,330,635
  • The Total Recurrent Revenue for financial year 2024/25 is estimated at SBD 18,926,306, which reflects our continuous partnership with our rural populace and our national government.

He explained that from the total recurrent revenue, the local revenue will contribute SBD 6,543,414, SIG through service grant will contribute SBD 11,636,456, savings revenue SBD 57,324 and other revenue, SBD 689,112.

Kevianga furthered that from the difference of total recurrent revenue less total recurrent expenditure figures, the province anticipates a surplus of SBD 2,873,170 to cover the PCDF co-funding and Ward Development Grant (WDG) arrears and current WDG in the capital expenditure.

Adding that the total revised recurrent expenditure for financial year 2024/25 is estimated at SBD 16,053,136.

Moreover, the MPA explained the disbursement of the expenditures especially the core expenditure levels of the provincial government as follow:

  1. Salary & wages which accounts for SBD 6,056,874
  2. Operational costs account for SBD 3,064,369
  3. Assembly and Executive expenditure accounts for SBD 2,799,698
  4. Debt Servicing accounts for SBD 300,000
  5. Repairs & Maintenance SBD 851,548
  6. Representing 42%,40%,11%,2% and 5% respectively.

He said on the revised capital expenditure, the province will spend a total of SBD 18,277,498.40 for this fiscal year.

Of this amount, Kevianga noted that the new revised PCDF allocation stands at SBD 11,873,158, and has recently allocated and reviewed by PPDC according to sectors projects will implement under the program.

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Clement Baegeni: I am planning to return to the field

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    BY JOHN HOUANIHAU

    Clement Baegeni, the prominent striker for the Malaita Eagles in 2017, has expressed his optimism regarding his football career and is preparing to make his return to the field.

    Now at the age of 30, Baegeni played a pivotal role in the Malaita Eagles’ victory in the 2017 Solomon Cup, where they triumphed over Central Shield with a score of 2-1 in a challenging match held at Lawson Tama.

    Following a year-long break from the sport due to an injury sustained in 2022 while playing for Real Kakamora FC, Baegeni reflected on his career trajectory.

    “After 2017, I joined Henderson Eels for our participation in the OFC. Upon our return, I played for Weneagu, Isebel Frigates, and Real Kakamora,” Baegeni from Sinamauri in West Kwaio, Malaita province said.

    Unfortunately, it was during his time with Real Kakamora that he suffered a significant injury, resulting in a fracture of a small bone in his leg, which supports the main bone.

    “I consulted a practitioner from the Western province who specializes in bone massage, and he advised me to take a year off to ensure complete recovery. Consequently, I returned home and refrained from playing during that period,” Baegeni shared with Island Sun.

    In early 2024, Baegeni arrived in Honiara and began working part-time for the Coast Watchers security firm as he gradually recovered from his injuries.

    The 30-year-old is driven to return to his football career, not only out of passion but also due to a profound respect for the sport within his country.

    “One of the key motivators for me has been witnessing our teams, particularly the national team, compete, even though they have not advanced far despite numerous opportunities. This has inspired me deeply; I often find myself imagining being part of that experience. I truly believe I can achieve it,” Baegeni expressed.

    “I frequently encounter my supporters, who encourage me to train and rejoin clubs, aiming to make my way back to the national team. I consistently reassure them that I will return to the field.

    “My interest and talent in football are precious to me, and I cannot afford to let them fade. Each time I watch soccer and see our teams fall short in major tournaments; it reignites my desire to play. When I observe players missing opportunities, I often think to myself how I wish I could be there,” he remarked.

    Throughout 2023, Baegeni dedicated much of his time at home, participating in organized fundraising events whenever possible.

    “I typically engage in training with my peers to sustain my passion for the sport. Despite my injury, I have made a mindful effort to participate in the Easter and Christmas games. Having now surpassed a year since my injury, I believe I have made a recovery and am eager to return to the field.

    “I am determined to preserve my skills and remain committed to my goals. Currently, I am awaiting the commencement of the league while continuing my training regimen at home. At this moment, I feel well and confident in my recovery. Additionally, my part-time role as a security officer helps keep me occupied during my time in Honiara, while also providing financial support for my family,’’ he said.

    Baegeni previously manned at Finance before being transferred to Central Plaza, where he has now been for three months. His tenure at finance lasted nearly nine months. He joined the Coast Watcher security firm in 2024.

    He mentioned, “My part-time job is specifically to support my parents, as I am the only son in the family.”

    Upon his return, he intends to await invitations from clubs, as he prefers not to impose himself on any particular team, although he is open to joining any club that expresses interest in him.

    While working in security, several individuals approached him, inquiring about his potential return to play. He took the opportunity to explain his situation and expressed his intention to resume playing football.

    When asked about his return to the field, he stated, “At this moment, my focus is on regaining my fitness and ensuring that I am fully recovered, so that I am prepared when the opportunity arises.”

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    Geotech studies on Bina project completes

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    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    Geotech studies on the Bina Harbor Tuna Processing Plant Project in Malaita province has successfully completed.

    The activity was funded by New Zealand and other donors and Malaita provincial government is grateful to witness progress on the national project.

    “The geotech studies has successfully completed for Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant Project,” Premier Asilaua said.

    Addressing the full assembly on Monday 13 January in Auki, he highlighted the importance of the project in spite of delay over the past years.

    “This national project remains important to our domestic economy in spite of the delays over the years.

    “We must strongly advocate for it to progress in the implementation. Since it will provide more employment opportunities and reduce high urban migration.

    “It will boost a productive private sector with commercial value chains in marketing niches to improve our revenue sources.

    “It will stimulate economic growth through social and resource sectors with better roads, water supply, power energy supply and education services,” he said.

    Asilaua assured the commitment of his government to render full support behind this very important economic project for Malaita province.

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    MEHRD EYES INCLUSIVE EDUCATION

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    Education minister highlights commitment to inclusive education

    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    EDUCATION Minister Tozen Leokana says the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) is committed to advancing inclusive education across the country.

    Speaking at the Stronger Education Together (SET) program signing last week, Leokana emphasized that inclusive education ensures all children, regardless of ability or background, have equal access to quality learning opportunities.

    He acknowledged the challenges faced by children with special needs or disabilities, including inaccessible infrastructure and a shortage of teachers with specialized skills to meet diverse learning needs.

    Leokana expressed optimism that the recent partnership between Australia and the Solomon Islands will help address educational inequality, the shortage of qualified teachers, and improve school infrastructure and resources.

    “ I would like to express our heartful thanks to the Government and people of Australia. I express my enthusiasm about the future opportunities the SET program will bring and reaffirm the commitment of my ministry to work together for the betterment of education in the Solomon Islands,” he added.

    Long overdue reform cannot be ignored

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    By Loretta B Manele

    A long overdue piece of reform that must be embarked on and cannot continue to be ignored is the Parliament Autonomy Bill.

    Matthew Wale, Leader of Opposition highlighted this during the Sine Die Motion in parliament last month.

    He stressed that the executive government cannot continue to ignore this matter.

    “A long overdue piece of reform we must embark on is the Parliament Autonomy Bill, the executive government cannot continue to ignore this matter”

    He said they must look into enhancing the capacity of parliament to deliver on its core responsibilities and the bill would enable this to happen.

    Wale also suggested that a standing calendar would be useful so that they and staff throughout the government and in parliament can work throughout set sitting schedules.

    He mentioned that parliament’s independence is continuously subjected to the executive government’s control of financial and human resources.

    Wale furthered that these are critical impediments that must be removed to enhance parliament’s independence.

    BUDGET PENDING

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    Malaita Provincial Youth Desk is awaiting approval of the revised 2024/2025 budget.

    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    The Malaita Provincial Youth Desk is awaiting the 2024/2025 revised budget to implement its programs for youth in Malaita province.

    The Coordinator of the Malaita Youth Desk, Mr. Francis Samo, said yesterday that the province is waiting for the assembly to pass the budget.

    He stated that the youth division, like other divisions under the Malaita province, is waiting for the budget to implement their programs.

    “Although the budget allocation for youth programs will not accommodate all activities, the division is determined to support youth in the province.

    “Youth programs range from social activities to income-generating projects that engage and empower youth in meaningful activities,” Samo said.

    He recalled important programs such as kava training and planting, where his office had involved youth in the province.

    Samo added that there were also other social programs designed to engage youth and prevent them from participating in undesirable activities.

    He highlighted that the most populous age group in Malaita province is youth, and addressing all their issues is challenging.

    Samo expressed gratitude for the support from donor partners and the national government in empowering youth in the province.

    He stated that his division will continue to work with donor partners to support youth programs and activities in the province.

    East Honiara constituency thanks Chinese Embassy for generous support

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    BY MAVIS N. PODOKOLO


    The Constituency Development Officer (CDO), Leslie Lamani, on behalf of the Member of Parliament for East Honiara Constituency, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chinese Embassy for its generous support.


    The assistance includes the provision of solar lighting and other essential supplies, which are expected to significantly benefit the residents of East Honiara.


    CDO Lamani acknowledged the Embassy’s ongoing contributions, emphasizing that the support will enhance the quality of life for many in the constituency and contribute to community development.


    “This gesture reflects the strong partnership and goodwill between the Chinese Embassy and the people of East Honiara. We are deeply appreciative of this meaningful support. This donation aligns with efforts to improve infrastructure and access to resources in both rural and urban areas across the constituency,” Lamani stated.

    Group Photo Taken During the Official Handing Over Ceremony.Photo supplied


    On behalf of the East Honiara Constituency Office, Lamani extended heartfelt gratitude to the People’s Republic of China for their continued support.


    “This assistance marks yet another milestone in the growing partnership between the East Honiara Constituency and the Chinese Embassy. Your invaluable contributions, including the provision of solar lighting and essential supplies, underscore a shared commitment to improving the lives of our people. We deeply appreciate this meaningful collaboration and its positive impact on our community,” he said.


    “We look forward to working closely with your esteemed office in the future to achieve even greater outcomes for the betterment of the people of Solomon Islands. Together, we can continue to build a brighter future for all. Thank you once again for your unwavering support,” Lamani concluded.
    The handing-over ceremony was recently held in Honiara.

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    Electoral commission urged to look into reform

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    By Loretta B Manele

    The electoral commission has been urged to look into the electoral reform and start working on it.

    Manasseh Maelanga, minister for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) raised this in parliament during the Sine Die Motion on Thurs, Dec 19th last year.

    He said he would like to see that the electoral commission begin working on the electoral reform on areas like registration, how the next voting in 2028 will be carried out and post voting.

    Maelanga pointed out that time is moving fast and a year is about to go by.

    “I think it’s time that the electoral commission try to look at those issues especially areas like whether people in Honiara will have to go back to their villages or constituencies to vote or can just remain in Honiara and vote”

    Maelanga mentioned that of course the government will look into these areas but he would like to see that the electoral commission starts working on the reform before bringing it to government’s attention.

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