British High Commissioner to Solomon Islands and Non-Resident Commissioner to the Republic of Nauru, His Excellency Paul Robert Turner is the new International Commissioner of the Solomon Islands Scout Association.
Mr Turner who was a member of Scouts in his teenage days, in Worcester, England, says – “It is a first for me!”
He says he is excited and honoured to be Solomon Islands international commissioner, and will be looking to try and help young boys get a sense of community and belonging.
“Today is so different to the 1970s England I grew up in.
“More challenges, more alienation for young people. I think Scouts and I working on anything that can give a sense of purpose for youths is good but it is difficult, I have no illusions of that.”
Turner took his Oath at Government House on Thursday before Chief Scout and Governor General Sir Rev David Tiva Kapu in a brief investiture and installation programme, a statement by the UK High Commission yesterday said.
Chief Commissioner of Scout Joe Billy Oge welcomed Turner to the Scout Movement:
“Welcome to the worldwide brotherhood of Scouting your Excellency British High Commissioner as the newly appointed International Commissioner for Solomon Islands Scout Association.
“We look forward to a close working relationship with you during your term in office in Solomon Islands.”
In his brief remarks for the ceremony Turner said:
“I was once in the scouts as a boy and I know the huge value the scouts can bring, both to young people and local communities.
“The scouts offer wonderful opportunities for boys to develop a range of life skills and to be a key part of the community.”
The Oath of Office ceremony was administered by the office of the Chief Commissioner before Governor General Kapu.
He was assisted by the Chairman of the Scout Council William Barile and National Commissioner for Training Edward James Anisi.
The appointments were approved by the Scout Council and signed by Governor General Kapu.
The Solomon Islands Scout Association was admitted as the 172nd member of the World Organisation of Scout Movement (WOSM) with voting rights as of June 30, 2021.
