The Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) has clarified recent remarks made by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Temotu Nende, Mr. Stephen Kumi, related to the ministry’s rental expenses.
MEHRD is not the only government ministry leasing office space in Honiara. For over two decades, several ministries and agencies have operated from rented premises due to a persistent shortage of government-owned office infrastructure.
Only a few ministries currently occupy purpose-built Government offices.
Since 2014, MEHRD has actively sought opportunities to construct its own office building but has faced challenges in securing suitable land.
For example, the Ministry identified the land at the former Parliament Rest House site as a potential location.
However, despite multiple attempts, approval was not granted by the relevant authorities. Similarly, efforts to acquire land occupied by the Institute of Public Administration and Management (IPAM) office building near the Ministry of Finance and Treasury were unsuccessful.
Whilst suggestions to invest in permanent office infrastructure may appear straight forward, the reality is far more complex.
The MEHRD remains committed to achieving this long term through proper and transparent means.
These difficulties are not unique to MEHRD—many ministries encounter similar obstacles when attempting to acquire through clean and transparent processes in Honiara. All the same, all government-owned land in the Capital Business District (CDB) in Honiara is scarce.
The decision to rent office space at the Tongs Building, Point Cruz was made to ensure a central, safe, accessible, and functional working environment for MEHRD staff, students, teachers, and the public who rely on MEHRD services.
MEHRD’s rental payments to Tongs Ltd are a legitimate business transaction that secures a suitable office space, while also benefiting the national economy.
As a tax-paying entity, Tongs Ltd contributes to government revenue, which funds essential public services, including salaries for Members of Parliament, public servants, and teachers.
Additionally, Tongs Ltd employs hundreds of Solomon Islanders. The rental payments help sustain these jobs by enabling the company to pay wages, NPF, provide benefits, and support local economic activities.
It is therefore misleading and unnecessary for the MP for Temotu Nende to question MEHRD’s rental arrangement with Tongs Ltd.
This media release is necessary to respond to unfounded accusations made against the MEHRD Executive Management by commentators through the social media.
The Ministry remains committed to ensuring that its operational expenses align with financial regulations while contributing to the broader economic stability of the country.
MEHRD remains open to constructive dialogue and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to address the need for a permanent office rather than making unsubstantiated criticisms and allegations that do not contribute to cost-effective solutions to support the MEHRD’s critical work in shaping the nation’s education sector.
