BY NED GAGAHE
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) on Monday, December 22, 2025, honoured 41 Year Three nursing students from Vanuatu during a completion and recognition ceremony at the SINU Kukum Campus Hall.
The brief but colourful ceremony marked the successful completion of studies by the 2023–2025 cohort, as the students prepared to return home to serve Vanuatu’s health sector. Dressed in traditional Vanuatu colours, the students celebrated the milestone with staff, sponsors, and fellow students.
Speaking at the ceremony, Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic and Acting Vice-Chancellor, Associate Professor Eric Katovai, congratulated the students on their perseverance and commitment throughout their three-year academic journey.
“You came to SINU not only to study nursing, but to commit yourselves to a calling that demands discipline, compassion, sacrifice, and resilience,” Associate Professor Katovai said, describing nursing as service in its most human form.
He acknowledged the challenges the students faced, including academic demands, clinical placements, cultural adjustment, and time away from home, and encouraged them to lead with integrity and carry the Pacific spirit wherever they go.
Associate Professor Katovai also acknowledged the support of families, churches, communities, and the Government and people of Vanuatu, and highlighted the strong partnership between SINU and Vanuatu.
“We do not grow alone; we grow together,” he said.
He further commended the Faculty of Nursing, Medicine, and Health Sciences (FNMHS), led by Dean Dr Humpress Harrington, for producing competent and ethical nursing professionals.
Ms Fabiola Remy of the Vanuatu National Provident Fund (VNPF), the major sponsor supporting most of the students, congratulated the graduates and encouraged them as they enter one of the country’s most respected professions.
Dean Dr Harrington reminded the students to uphold honesty, integrity, respect for leadership, and professionalism in their future careers.
Former class captain Mr Ini Budley Tari, speaking on behalf of the students, thanked SINU for providing not only academic training but also guidance and discipline that contributed to their personal and professional growth.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates and leadership awards.
Photo: Supplied
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