BY MORRIS NAFU
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) proudly held its annual graduation ceremony yesterday at Maranatha Hall, honouring the academic achievements of 1,428 students.
This year’s graduating class is one of the largest in the university’s history, with 60 percent female and 40 percent male graduates spanning a wide range of disciplines across SINU’s faculties and schools.
Vice Chancellor Dr Transform Aqorau addressed the gathering, congratulating the graduates on their remarkable accomplishments under the theme “Charting New Horizons: Our Stories, Our Future”.
He highlighted the unique journeys each graduate has taken, overcoming challenges and reaching new heights, now ready to embark on fresh paths equipped with knowledge, values, and dreams to shape the nation’s future.
“This class of 2025 is truly exceptional from teaching and nursing to business, engineering, science, and agriculture, these graduates stand ready to serve our country with pride and dedication,” said Aqorau.
A special milestone was celebrated with the conferral of a Master of Science by Research, the highest degree awarded this year. Kabini Fa’ari Afia received this honour, marking a proud moment for both himself and SINU, showcasing the university’s growing academic excellence.
Aqorau acknowledged the resilience and determination of the graduates, many of whom balanced studies with work, family responsibilities, or personal hardships.
He also expressed gratitude to the families, lecturers, and support staff whose unwavering support made this day possible.
“Behind every graduate is a network of support,” he said, thanking parents, spouses, siblings, faculty, and administrative staff for their vital roles.
“Your encouragement and dedication have been the wind beneath their wings,” he added.
Despite challenges such as limited facilities and resources, Aqorau praised the graduates’ adaptability and resourcefulness, noting that their success is a testament to their courage and character.
He assured that SINU is committed to improving infrastructure and services for future students.
The Vice Chancellor reminded graduates that leadership is rooted in service, humility, and responsibility.
“To lead is to serve,” he said, urging graduates to carry this forward as they step into leadership roles in their communities and workplaces.
He encouraged them to dream big and make a difference, no matter their origins.
“Smallness is a state of mind,” he quoted Pacific scholar Leight Eppeli, urging graduates to think beyond limits and embrace their potential to impact the world.
As the ceremony concluded, Vice Chancellor Aqorau called on graduates to reflect on their achievements and the responsibility that comes with their education.
“Do not ask what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country,” he urged.
The class of 2025 now joins the ranks of SINU alumni, ready to chart new horizons and contribute to the nation’s bright future.
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