Four school buses have been donated by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development’s (MID’s) Land Transport Infrastructure Management Services Division to the Honiara City Council (HCC) on Wednesday.
The low-key ceremony was officiated by MID Minister Hon. Ricky Fuo’o, Minister of Home Affairs Hon. Junior Isikeli Vave, and HCC Lord Mayor Eddie Siapu.
Minister Fuo’o, in his brief remarks said, this donation of buses is the result of discussions between HCC and his office last year.
He emphasized that the responsibility now lies with HCC to operate the buses to serve the transportation needs of children in Honiara.
Minister Fuo’o also highlighted that by 2028, all students should have access to free public transportation, demonstrating the government’s commitment to improving land transport and achieving key milestones in time for the country’s 50th anniversary.
He briefed that under the initial arrangement, it acts as a trial, and if the demand for school transportation grows, the government will chip in to procure additional buses.
“HCC is currently operating the buses to assist MID in determining the full operational costs. Once these costs are established, then MID will include the transportation expenses in the recurrent budget, enabling all students to travel for free.”
Home Affairs Minister Hon. Vave, in his remarks, underscored that this ceremony represents a significant step forward in a shared commitment to enhancing education and the well-being of young learners.
“This donation of buses marks our collective effort to improve access to education, create safer options for students, and promote a brighter future for the next generation.
“Education is the foundation upon which a prosperous society is built, and access to reliable, safe transportation is an essential element in making that education a reality for many of our children,” he stated.
Minister Vave expressed gratitude to MID for providing the buses to HCC through his ministry, as well as to the development partners who contributed to this effort.
He urged HCC management to ensure that the buses are used for their intended purpose.
Mayor Siapu expressed his appreciation for the support from the national government.
“We are extremely happy to receive these buses, which will greatly enhance school transportation in Honiara,” he said.
“This partnership aligns with HCC’s plans to establish a dedicated school bus service, as outlined in the Honiara City Act 1999. With this donation, we can move forward in realizing that vision.”
He added that HCC has recently approved the formation of a management committee responsible for overseeing the bus service, including finalizing routes, schedules, and guidelines for parents and school children.
The council will carry out messaging and awareness through media and social platforms before and during the initial phase of service.
The buses (Tata brand) are part of a fleet of 20 donated by the Indian government in 2023 to support the successful hosting of the Pacific Games.
Under a legacy arrangement in 2024, half of the bus fleet was donated to training institutions, government agencies, and line ministries.
Those remaining are retained and maintained at the MID pool and continue to support the government in hosting local, regional, and international events.
These four buses with a capacity of 31 seats and an interior feature that can accommodate additional passengers have been repainted high-visibility yellow colors, with “School Bus” clearly printed on the front and sides.
The handing-over ceremony was witnessed by MID’s senior officials and HCC executive members.
– MID Press
