BY NED GAGAHE

The Australian Government reaffirms its commitment to strengthen the accounting profession in Solomon Islands through its continuous support for the Professional Diploma in Accounting (PDA) programme.

Australia’s Acting Deputy High Commissioner Emily Flahive, in her remarks at the Institute of Solomon Islands Accountant’s (ISIA) annual congress on Thursday, August 21, 2025 shared the highlights of the program on the country’s professional and public service sectors.

She said to date, 116 scholarships have been funded, primarily benefiting public service employees, enabling them to improve financial management and professional standards within their ministries.

Ms Flahive mentioned that ministries that participated in the programme have reported positive outcomes, demonstrating the diploma’s effectiveness in building capacity and strengthening governance.

She added that 30 percent of students are currently on the phase of completing the programme and this has been instrumental in enhancing government auditing and accounting capabilities.

Ms Flahive also announced that the Australian Government will fund scholarships for the next cohort of the PDA and encourages interested participants to contact ISIA coordinators for further information.

“The PDA is not just a training programme—it is a vital step in supporting the growth of a skilled and professional accounting workforce in the Solomon Islands,” she said.

The Acting Deputy High Commissioner said the continued investment reflects Australia’s broader partnership with the Solomon Islands in fostering sustainable economic growth, professional development, and enhanced public financial management.

“I am delighted to announce that scholarships will again be funded for the next cohort. Interested participants are encouraged to contact the ISIA coordinators,” she said.

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