BY JUNELYN KELLY
Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has honoured 33 of its top-performing students at the 2026 Academic High Achievers Awards, highlighting the vital role academic excellence plays in national development.
The awards ceremony was held at the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management on Thursday this week.
According to a statement posted on SINU’s Facebook page yesterday, the event brought together university leaders, staff, families, and invited guests to celebrate outstanding student achievements across multiple faculties
Speaking at the event, Acting Vice-Chancellor Associate Professor Eric Katovai said the occasion was not only about recognising academic results, but also about the determination and discipline behind the students’ success.
“What we celebrate this evening is more than academic performance and it reflects perseverance, focus, and consistency,” he said.
Katovai said that the awards recognise outstanding students from the Faculty of Nursing, Medicine and Health Sciences, Faculty of Education and Humanities, Faculty of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Faculty of Business and Tourism Studies as well as the university’s Technical and Further Education (TAFE) programmes.
SINU said a major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Vice-Chancellor’s Award to Desma Mapita, who achieved the highest academic performance in the Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership and Change.
Katovai said that in a small island nation like Solomon Islands, academic excellence carries broader significance, with graduates expected to contribute meaningfully to the country’s future.
“You are not only high achievers within your faculties but you are future contributors to this nation’s development,” he said.
He also acknowledged the support systems behind the students, recognising families and university staff for their important role in helping students succeed.
SINU reaffirms its commitment to nurturing high achievers and producing graduates equipped to support national growth and development.
Photo credit: SINU
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