BY INDY MAEALASIA

Solomon Islands Rangers Association (SIRA) continues to give school dropouts a second chance by inspiring their interests in being a ranger and conservation work.

Recognizing that many school dropouts return to their communities with limited opportunities, SIRA’s Program Manager, Edward Haikau Huitarau, said the association remains committed to visiting communities and providing practical training.

He said SIRA continues to upskill a wide range of rangers across the country.

“This includes young people who have dropped out of school as well as older community members who hold valuable customary knowledge about managing and protecting natural resources,” said Huitarau.

He emphasized that the association also includes the elderly, highlighting that traditional knowledge is vital in both a ranger’s duties and broader conservation work.

“Conservation is not only about scientific approaches but also about traditional knowledge,” he explained.

Huitarau said SIRA also works closely with the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) to support aspiring rangers in pursuing further education, including diplomas in environmental or fisheries studies.

“This is about building a generation of rangers who understand both the science and the culture behind conservation. By doing this, we ensure that the country’s biodiversity is protected by those who know it best,” he said.

Huitarau noted that many young people are often disengaged and involved in other social issues.  

However, when conservation training is brought directly into communities and is hands-on, many have shown interest.

“These trainings have helped a lot of these young people by translating the knowledge from the classrooms into practical skills they can use to protect their environment,” he said.

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