BY TONY IROGA
Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has welcomed a landmark High Court ruling confirming its ownership of a key parcel of land at Panatina, ending a legal dispute over the property and reinforcing the university’s plans for future development.
The ruling, delivered in Civil Case No. 504 of 2023, declared that the university is the lawful registered owner of Fixed Term Estate Parcel 192-002-131, commonly known as PN131, located at Panatina in East Honiara, a statement by SINU on its Facebook page on Monday this week said.
Court also granted a permanent injunction preventing the defendant and associated individuals from re-entering, occupying, using, constructing on, or otherwise interfering with the land without the university’s prior written consent.
In addition, the Court awarded SINU $500,000 in damages for trespass and ordered legal costs in the university’s favour, the SINU statement said.
The defendant’s counterclaim, which included applications for rectification of the land register, overriding interest and adverse possession, was dismissed in its entirety, the statement said.
SINU said it respects the Court’s decision and recognises the importance of the rule of law in resolving land disputes.
SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau described the judgment as a significant outcome not only for the university but also for the integrity of registered land ownership in Solomon Islands.
“This judgment confirms SINU’s lawful title and provides certainty over land that is important to the future development of the university.
“SINU will proceed carefully and lawfully in implementing the Court’s orders. We remain committed to acting responsibly, respecting due process, and ensuring that university land is protected and used for the benefit of students, staff, and the people of Solomon Islands,” Aqorau said.
The judgment is expected to strengthen SINU’s ability to manage and develop its Panatina Campus, which remains one of the University’s most important assets for future expansion and educational growth.
Following the Court’s decision, SINU said it will now undertake the necessary legal and administrative processes to ensure compliance with the judgment and secure the land for future university purposes.
Photo: Supplied
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