BY RICHARD MENANOPO
A recent publication by Southern Cross University has highlighted how a four-week student placement at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) has evolved into a lasting partnership that continues to support sports development and future collaboration between Solomon Islands and Australia.
In an article published on July 1, the Australian university reflected on the experiences of Exercise Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology students who completed a four-week placement at SINIS earlier this year under Australia’s New Colombo Plan, supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
During the placement, the students worked alongside SINIS coaches and national athletes, assisting with strength and conditioning programmes, delivering training sessions and presentations, and supporting athlete development across a range of sports.
Bachelor of Exercise Science and Psychological Science student Jacob Davidson said in the university publication that it was rewarding to see the difference the team had made during their time at the institute.
“It was really rewarding. You could actually see how we helped improve their experience,” Davidson said.
Fellow student Jeremy Salter said the placement challenged the group to adapt to changing circumstances while gaining valuable practical experience.
“Getting thrown in the deep end… I think that accelerated my capacity. Coming back now, things just come a lot more naturally,” he said.
The university said the placement also strengthened relationships between the visiting students and SINIS coaches, creating cultural and professional connections that extended well beyond the four-week programme.
Speaking during the farewell ceremony, SINIS Performance Manager Zanetana Djokovic acknowledged the contribution made by the visiting students despite challenges encountered during the placement.
“I understand there were challenges during your stay, but we adapted and overcame them together. That reflects what SINIS is about… adapting and overcoming the many challenges we face here in Solomon Islands,” Djokovic said.
He added that the students’ contribution has been valuable to the institute and welcomed future collaboration.
“Your presence has been very helpful to us. Our doors are always open should you wish to return,” he said.
According to the publication, discussions have since begun on a potential research partnership focusing on improving cancer care in Solomon Islands through exercise science, while plans are already underway for another student placement at SINIS next year with opportunities to expand collaboration across other disciplines.
The Southern Cross University delegation completed its four-week placement at SINIS in February this year, working closely with local coaches and athletes under the New Colombo Plan programme.
The visit concluded with a farewell ceremony celebrating the partnership and the shared commitment to strengthening sports science and athlete development in Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: NSC/SINIS
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
