By Loretta B Manele

Australia has commenced on a new partnership with Solomon Islands in the education sector.

Rod Hilton, Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands revealed this at a function held to mark the end of Solomon Islands partnership with both Australia and New Zealand through Education Sector Support Program (ESSP) on Wednesday last week at Mendana Hotel.

Prior to making the announcement, he said in regards to the Education Act 2023, Australia stands with the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) and other friends to prioritise and provide access to education for every child in Solomon Islands.

“Regardless of where they come from and what kind of disability they have.”

He stated that education is key to unlock potential and to empower children, to shape their lives, their families, communities and the nation.

Hilton said they have recently kicked off the brand-new Solomon Islands Australian partnership “Stronger Education Together”.

Under this partnership, he expressed that in the coming years they will tackle a lot of key challenges faced in the education sector.

Hilton said they will also continue to build school facilities across every province and comprehensively, will upgrade teacher training at SINU.

“We will provide teachers of the next generation with a modern state of the art training environment and with a curriculum and tools to perfect their teaching skills before they transition to classrooms around the country.”

Hilton noted that they are very proud of the many ways ESSP has directly benefited thousands of students and teachers from remote areas to Honiara.

“I would like to acknowledge the ESSP team. We know the significant role you play to support three partners and for providing your expertise.

Thank you so much for helping to make the work of ESSP successful.”

Hilton stated that we can look back with pride and look forward with anticipation and excitement of a new chapter ahead.

For feedback, contact: [email protected]