BY CHRIS ALEX
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele acknowledges the urgency of ongoing concerns raised by the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA), outlining the government’s commitment to addressing key issues affecting educators across the country.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, Manele responded to SINTA’s list of seven demands, which includes strengthening job security, recognition of teaching experience in salary calculations, backdated pay, and a full review of the national salary structure.
The union is also calling for the formal inclusion of Early Childhood Education (ECE), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and disabilities educators, alongside improved allowances and reassessments of education providers’ financial capacities.
The Prime Minister confirmed that the government has already reached consensus on three demands: job security, the national salary structure review, and financial reassessments of education providers.
“A taskforce has been activated to address the remaining four demands. We are not here to dismiss concerns –we are here to act. Teachers are the foundation of our national development. Their voices matter, and their demands reflect the realities they face every day in classrooms across the country,” Manele announced.
Manele emphasized the government’s intent to adopt a collaborative and inclusive approach, stating that the taskforce will include technical experts and education stakeholders. Special attention will be given to integrating ECE, TVET, and disability educators into the national framework.
“These educators have been overlooked for too long. Their inclusion is not a policy shift it is a moral imperative,” he said.
On the more complex issues of backdated salary payments and the recognition of years of teaching experience, Manele acknowledged ongoing challenges but assured that progress is being made.
“We understand the frustration. Teachers deserve to be compensated fairly and recognized for their years of service. We are working closely with the Ministry of Finance and the Teaching Services Commission to ensure these matters are resolved transparently and equitably,” he said.
The Prime Minister issued an appeal for unity and patience from educators as the government finalizes its implementation roadmap.
“This is a turning point. We are not just negotiating terms we are building trust. I ask our teachers to walk with us as we shape a more inclusive and resilient education system for the Solomon Islands,” he said.
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