By Loretta B Manele

A fence may seem as simple as it sounds, but it is vital to ensure that students are learning in a safe environment.

Lindsay Buckingham, Minister Counsellor from the Australian High Commission expressed the sentiment whilst speaking at the handover of the Ilia Community High School (CHS) Fencing project yesterday at the school.

Addressing students and staff of the school, she stressed on why having a fence at their school is important.

Buckingham said the fence, although it may look like a simple thing, is very important and will help them focus on their education.

She added that it also creates boundaries to help keep the school secure so that they don’t worry about distraction from outside.

“The fence also protects school property and make sures that the area in which you are learning in is safe.

That means fewer distractions and more focus on studies.”

She highlighted that education is key for their future and all of them are future leaders, innovators and change makers of Solomon Islands.

Buckingham said the knowledge they gain at their school will help them to shape the community, country and build their dreams.

However, to do that, she pointed out that they will need to be in a safe and secure environment hence the fencing project.

Moreover, Buckingham emphasized that the project is an example of strong partnership between Australia and Solomon Islands.

“Australia recognises that best solutions can come out when local communities are better empowered to take charge of their future growth and this is exactly what we see here today at Ilia Community High School.”

Buckingham said the fence also depicts of how partnerships with communities can make tangible differences.

She also acknowledged the school principal, headmistress and project manager who is the former principal of the school for helping them make the project a success.

“We will continue to work together to improve communities, build futures and to ensure that you have the tools needed for success.”

She mentioned that it was in 2022 when Ilia CHS was awarded funding for the project which was one of 13 projects funded by Australia in that year.

Buckingham said Australia increased it’s funding for this project.

She added that in 2024, Australia funded 100 community projects across every province in Solomon Islands.

Buckingham stated that this year, Australia will fund 100 more projects.

Ilia CHS fencing project comes under Solomon Islands and Australia Community Partnerships program.

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