From half- empty book shelves, to worn out furniture and a slowly deteriorating rooftop that barely holds, through the years Su’u National secondary library has slowly eroded away.

The Library, once the lifeblood of academic pursuit now sits in a state of disrepair.

“A crucial component of school” is what both old and new scholars of Su’u School describe the library as being, and seeing the current state it is in is really disheartening, one scholar added.

In an effort to restore the school’s central learning hub, the Rotaract Club of Honiara in partnership with the Rotaract Club of Paddington have launched Project RISE (Renovation in Su’u for Education).

An initiative that aims to repair the library, donate 4,500 books and supply 50 new desks which will help revive the school’s library.

The big goal

The one-and-a-half-week project, which is set for June 2025, will bring together 25 volunteers from the Rotaract Clubs of Honiara and Paddington as they travel to Su’u Secondary School to carry out the initiative.

The team of volunteers will include skilled professionals, including roofers, plasters and electricians who will be working alongside local experts to help repair the library.

The big goal is to repair the Su’u’s library structure, install new roofing, repaint walls and provide 4,500 books, 50 desks and chairs which will help create a conducive learning environment for the students.

Ebony McNaughton, president of the Rotaract Club of Paddington, emphasised that the project’s impact extends well beyond the present moment.

“This project is about more than us; it’s about transforming the lives of children and creating lasting change for future generations.”

The Final Stretch

Through tremendous efforts, $55,000 AUD has been raised so far.

An additional $10,000 AUD is still needed to fully finance the renovations and material transportations.

Both clubs are actively seeking sponsors and donations to help bridge the financial gap and ensure that Project RISE is a success.

Zashua Hall, the past president of Rotaract Paddington spoke on the club’s motivation behind Project RISE.

“We believe you are a product of your surroundings, so in the short term, we hope being in a nicer environment will make the students and teachers excited about being there.

“In the long run, we hope this attitude carries forward into the students’ learning, specifically the ability to use their knowledge to create a positive impact in their communities and the rest of the Solomon Islands.”