USP graduates urged to use their education, knowledge and ambition to lead Pacific communities and drive regional action. By: Steven Kamoa A total of 215 students graduating from the University of the South Pacific (USP) Solomon Islands Campus have been encouraged to apply their education to the challenges facing their communities and the wider Pacific [...]
The post USP graduates challenged to become Pacific’s next generation of leaders appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
WESTERN Provincial Minister of Works, Freedom Tozaka has commended the Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement (CAUSE) II Project for its contribution to infrastructure development in the province.
Tozaka said the CAUSE II Project was helping build the future that Western Province was striving for by investing in facilities that directly benefit communities.
He said the completed infrastructure represented an important investment in the people of Western Province and Solomon Islands.
“It was exciting to see the many infrastructures that have been completed under the CAUSE project.
“As the Minister of Works for Western Province, to see the facilities and to see people, especially children, enjoy the facilities—for example, at the Rita School—was encouraging,” Tozaka said.
He expressed gratitude to the Solomon Islands Government, the Australian Government and the World Bank for supporting infrastructure development through the project.
Tozaka said the projects had different purposes but shared an important goal of improving public services and the quality of life for communities.
He said the continued development of community infrastructure would provide lasting benefits if the facilities were properly managed and maintained.
Tozaka also acknowledged the contribution of the communities and stakeholders involved in delivering the CAUSE II projects across Western Province.
The CAUSE II Project has supported a range of community infrastructure, including footpaths, solar lighting, storage facilities and market infrastructure in Gizo and Noro.
[Photo: Hon. Freedom Tozaka delivers his speech during the handing over of projects at Gizo. Photo credit: Ben Bilua]
BY JOSES SAREN
The country’s renowned academic, Professor Transform Aqorau has called for merit and fairness to be protected in public service appointments, saying recruitment should remain free from improper political influence.
Speaking at the Attorney-General’s Conference of Parties 2026 in Honiara yesterday, Professor Aqorau distinguished the legitimate role of elected leaders from the professional role of public servants.
“Politics is legitimate. Democracy requires elected leaders to make choices, set priorities and answer to the electorate. But the politicisation of administration is different,” he said.
Professor Aqorau said government capability could gradually decline when political loyalty displaced competence in appointments, temporary influence became a pathway to permanent office, or recruitment outcomes were decided before vacancies were advertised.
He said the consequences could include weak decisions, avoidable costs, capable officers losing confidence and leaving, and a growing belief that professional performance mattered less than personal connections.
Reflecting on the public service framework, Professor Aqorau said political patronage, pressure and other forms of non-merit influence had become more visible in appointments and postings over time.
He said this should not be attributed to legislation alone, as institutions were also shaped by political practice, administrative culture and the conduct of people working within them.
Professor Aqorau pointed to the Public Service Act 2025, saying it provided an important legislative recommitment to merit and fairness.
He said the Act recognised equality of employment opportunity, merit-based human-resource management and competitive recruitment, while giving the Public Service Commission a role in safeguarding the impartiality and integrity of appointments.
“If an office is part of the professional public service, let appointment to it be competitive, transparent and based on merit,” he said.
Professor Aqorau also addressed wantokism, acknowledging its importance as a source of belonging, care and resilience, but warning against using that obligations to capture public employment, contracts or resources.
He said merit was a practical expression of fairness, giving people across Solomon Islands a fair opportunity to serve based on their ability, character and potential.
“Public office belongs to the nation, not to a faction,” Professor Aqorau said.
[Photo: Professor Transform Aqorau. Photo credit: Joses Saren]
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Community Access and Urban Services Enhancement (CAUSE) Project has been described as a blessing to Western Province, providing infrastructure that the province has struggled to deliver because of financial constraints.
Western Province Government Provincial Capacity Development Advisor Korolyn Ote Zutu-Purcell made the statement during the handover of 19 completed CAUSE projects in Gizo and Noro.
Purcell said the CAUSE Project had provided essential infrastructure that her division had been eager to deliver but lacked the financial resources to fund.
She said the Western Province Government faced serious financial limitations, particularly within its Works Division, making it difficult to undertake infrastructure projects of such scale using provincial funds.
“CAUSE Project provides the essential infrastructure that our division has been eager to deliver but lacked the resources to fund,” Purcell said.
She described the newly constructed footpaths and installed solar lighting as “game-changers” for residential areas and access routes in Gizo and Noro.
Purcell said the facilities would improve safety and accessibility for communities, particularly people travelling at night.
She said workers returning home after late shifts, families travelling to markets and children returning from school will now be able to use the improved access routes more safely under solar lighting.
Purcell adds that the Noro Fish Market Stall and the Noro Market Drainage Rehabilitation will drastically improve hygiene, comfort, and business conditions for the hardworking vendors and fishmongers.
“On behalf of the Western Province Government and the entire Gizo and Noro community, I extend our deepest and most sincere gratitude to our development partners,” she said.
Purcell acknowledged the support provided by the World Bank, the Government of Australia and the Solomon Islands Government.
“Thank you to the World Bank, the Government of Australia and the Solomon Islands Government for your generous support and continued investment in the people of Solomon Islands.
“Your partnership bridges critical gaps and drives real, visible progress at the community level,” she said.
The handover of the 19 completed projects marks another investment in community infrastructure aimed at improving access, safety and urban services for residents in Gizo and Noro.
[Photo: Ms. Korolyn Ote Zutu-Purcell. Photo credit: Ben Bilua]
BY NED GAGAHE
THE late former Governor-General Sir Nathaniel Waena GCMG, CSI, KStJ will be accorded a State Funeral this Friday, September 25, at Saint Barnabas Anglican Cathedral in Honiara.
Sir Nathaniel, who served as the country’s sixth Governor-General from 2004 to 2009, died aged 81 on September 19 at the National Referral Hospital in Honiara following an illness.
The National Government said the State Funeral is being held to honour Sir Nathaniel’s more than 40 years of public service, which included serving as a teacher, senior civil servant, Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister before becoming Governor-General.
He served as the Member of Parliament for Ulawa/Ugi and held ministerial responsibilities before taking up the country’s highest constitutional office.
The official programme for Friday will begin with the late statesman lying-in-state at the National Parliament Chamber from 8am to 1pm, allowing members of the public to pay their final respects.
A State Funeral Service will then be held at 2pm at Saint Barnabas Anglican Cathedral.
Following the funeral service, Sir Nathaniel’s body will be transported to his home village of Ahia on Ulawa Island, Makira-Ulawa Province, for burial.
The Government said details of the village burial service would be announced by Sir Nathaniel’s family.
The State Funeral is the highest honour accorded by the nation to distinguished citizens who have rendered eminent and meritorious service to Solomon Islands.
Government said the honour is accorded in accordance with established government protocol and Westminster tradition to current and former Governors-General, Prime Ministers and national heroes.
It said the State Funeral would provide an opportunity for the nation to collectively mourn Sir Nathaniel and recognise his contribution to nation-building.
Prime Minister Matthew Wale has also directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast from September 19 until sunset on the day of Sir Nathaniel’s burial as a mark of national mourning and respect.
The Government has called on Solomon Islanders to join in honouring the memory of Sir Nathaniel and recognising his contribution through decades of public service.
[Photo: Late former Governor-General Sir Nathaniel Waena GCMG, CSI, KStJ. Photo supplied]
BY NED GAGAHE
GOLD Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) has launched its second annual Community Foundation Programme, providing financial assistance to vulnerable people living within the Gold Ridge catchment area.
The programme targets Solomon Islanders aged 60 and above, people living with disabilities, widows and widowers, and people suffering from terminal illnesses who face difficulties securing regular income. A statement from the company today said.
This year, a total of SBD$1.5 million has been committed to the programme through personal contributions from GRML’s senior leadership.
GRML Director, Ms Jinzhu Gao with locals at the Gold Ridge Foundation event. Photo credit: GRLM.
Chairman of Wanguo Gold Group and GRML, Mingqing Gao, contributed SBD$1 million, while GRML Director Jinzhu Gao donated a further SBD$500,000.
GRML said the contributions reflected the personal commitment of the company’s leadership to supporting vulnerable people in communities surrounding the Gold Ridge mine.
The programme has expanded significantly since it was first introduced last year, with more than 500 beneficiaries from 36 communities expected to receive assistance this year.
Distribution began on Friday, September 18, with the Community Foundation team having already reached 305 beneficiaries at four venues across the Gold Ridge catchment area.
A further two distribution programmes are scheduled to take place in the coming days.
GRML said six distribution venues were identified across the catchment area to ensure the programme was accessible and that the distribution process was conducted in an orderly and dignified manner.
Beneficiaries were formally notified of their assigned dates and distribution locations.
Mr Gao said Gold Ridge was proud to support vulnerable members of the communities where the company operates.
“As a responsible mining company, Gold Ridge is proud to support the community where we operate through this flagship initiative that provides aid where it is most needed to some of the most vulnerable members of the Solomon Islands community,” he said.
He said the company’s contribution to Solomon Islands extended beyond its economic activities to social investments in local communities.
“These social investments have ranged from building much-needed infrastructure such as housing and roads to supporting local schools,” Mr Gao said.
He added that the company would continue supporting initiatives focused on community wellbeing, cultural heritage and sustainable development.
GRML said its community investments had included roads, community housing, drinking water wells, internet and power services, and sports uniforms for local schools.
The company said it had invested about SBD120 million in concrete roads and other community infrastructure in the Gold Ridge area.
GRML also reported that the Gold Ridge Mine generated about SBD3 billion in revenue in 2025, contributed around 23 per cent of national GDP, and paid about SBD510 million in taxes and royalties.
The company said it employed around 1,000 people, including more than 700 Solomon Islanders, with indirect employment estimated at more than 3,000 jobs.
Under its current SBD6 billion mine expansion project, GRML said Gold Ridge is expected to make a significantly larger contribution to the national economy, including through employment, government revenue and economic activity.
The company said the expansion is expected to support more than 6,300 direct and indirect jobs nationwide.
The Community Foundation Programme is part of GRML’s broader community support activities in the Gold Ridge catchment area.
[Photo: Beneficiaries of the Gold Ridge Foundation in the Solomon Islands. Photo credit: GRLM.]
BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
A WEEK-LONG stakeholder workshop for the Agriculture Investment for Market and Nutrition (AIM-N) Project is underway in Gizo, Western Province.
The workshop has brought together representatives from key sectors, including agriculture, education, women’s groups, farmers and the Western Provincial Government.
Inclusive Partnerships Manager and Team Leader Alex Gina Kivolyn said the workshop has five key objectives aimed at establishing a strong foundation for the implementation of AIM-N in the province.
He said the first objective is to officially introduce AIM-N to key stakeholders and potential provincial partners, while explaining the rationale behind the project and why Western Province was selected.
“The second objective is to establish a Provincial Coordination Committee (PCC) to oversee implementation and anchor all subsequent sessions,” Kivolyn said.
He said the workshop also aims to build a common understanding among stakeholders of the project’s goals, scope and expected outcomes.
Kivolyn said the fourth objective is to strengthen coordination among stakeholders and partners, while the fifth is to support the overall implementation of AIM-N and align its objectives with the development priorities of the Western Provincial Government.
He said participants would also identify four major crops already produced in Western Province and develop case studies examining their supply chains, from farmers through to potential buyers.
Kivolyn said the scoping of the identified crops would be carried out following the workshop.
“This will be followed by a series of consultations aimed at strengthening market connections and linking farmers with potential buyers,” he said.
Kivolyn said the workshop is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to identify opportunities and challenges affecting agricultural production and market access in Western Province.
The workshop will end on Friday September 25.
[Photo: Officials and participants attended the workshop. Photo credit: Ben Bilua.]
BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Solomon Islands National Provident Fund (SINPF) will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a week-long programme of activities from September 27 to October 1, 2026.
A statement from SINPF said the celebrations will be held under the theme “Honouring 50 Years of Trust, Stability and Growth”, reflecting on the Fund’s journey since its establishment in 1976 and its contribution to the financial security of members and the economic development of Solomon Islands.
The celebrations will begin on September 27 with a combined thanksgiving service, bringing together stakeholders and supporters to acknowledge God’s guidance and blessings over the Fund’s 50-year history.
On September 28, invited secondary schools will participate in the SINPF 50th Anniversary Speech Contest at the Desmond Probert Hall at St Barnabas Cathedral.
The following day, September 29, SINPF staff, together with employees from its subsidiaries and shareholding companies, will take part in an anniversary parade from SMI-NPF Property to Ports Magic Land.
The public is also invited to attend the SINPF Career and Trade Fair at Ports Magic Land on September 29 and 30.
The fair will feature displays, products and promotional activities from SINPF subsidiaries and shareholding companies, including Our Telekom, South Pacific Oil, Solomon Submarine Cable, Solomon Housing Limited, Solomon Finance Limited, King Solomon Hotel, SolTuna and Heritage Park Hotel.
A major attraction during the celebrations will be a special production by the Dream Cast Theatre Team, presenting SINPF’s historical journey from 1976 to 2026 and highlighting key milestones achieved over the past five decades.
The celebrations will culminate on October 1, the official anniversary day, with a commemorative event at the Aquatic Centre at Panatina, East Honiara.
The programme will be attended by invited guests, stakeholders, subsidiaries, shareholding companies and development partners.
SINPF is encouraging members of the public to attend the Career and Trade Fair and learn more about its services, investments and contribution to the Solomon Islands economy over the past 50 years.
[Photo: SINPF to mark 50 years of trust, stability and growth. Photo supplied.]
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
More than 70 people in Tholana Community, Isabel Province, have taken part in a sports and fitness outreach aimed at encouraging greater participation in physical activity outside Honiara.
The National Sports Council (NSC) said the community outreach on Sunday September 20, 2026, was delivered through its “Fitness Blo Iumi” programme, combining physical activities with awareness on healthier and more active lifestyles.
The initiative is part of the council’s wider effort to extend sports, recreation and fitness opportunities into provincial communities, rather than concentrating such programmes in the capital.
STAYING ACTIVE: Members of the Tholana community participate in an outdoor stretching and fitness session led by the National Sports Council during the Fitness Blo Iumi outreach in Isabel Province. Photo credit: NSC.
For Tholana, the outreach also provided an opportunity for residents to take part in an organised fitness activity while learning more about the importance of staying physically active.
NSC Sports and Recreational Development Coordinator for Isabel Province, Diana Mafuara, who led the outreach, said the programme was designed to encourage communities to make physical activity part of their daily routine.
“Fitness Blo Iumi encourages our communities to stay active and make physical activity part of their everyday lives,” Mafuara said.
The turnout was welcomed by Tholana Community Chair Charles Fititei, who said residents were pleased to see the programme brought to their community.
“We are very happy that NSC brought this programme to our community. It is the first time we have had an activity like this, and everyone really enjoyed it,” Fititei said.
Over 70 residents from Tholana gathered at the community hall to listen to health and fitness presentations delivered by the NSC team and health officials. Photo credit: NSC.
The Tholana outreach is also part of Mafuara’s ongoing community work across Isabel, with NSC looking to use sport, recreation and fitness as practical ways of encouraging healthier lifestyles at community level.
The programme received support from Nurse Hamilton Lisimae of the Buala Medical Hospital NCD Department, who accompanied the NSC team during the awareness session. Isabel Provincial Sports Coordinator Adrian Ratana also assisted with the outreach.
NSC continues to promote Fitness Blo Iumi as part of its broader sports, recreation and health-and-wellbeing work, with provincial communities increasingly being included in its outreach activities.
[Photo:Tholana residents interact with local sports officials and health representatives beside the NSC banner during the active-lifestyle awareness session. Photo credit: NSC.]
Dr Sean Richards graduated on 22 September as the first Sāmoan to complete a PhD in Physics at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, with doctoral research on how stars evolve and die.
肖恩·理查兹博士(Dr Sean Richards)于9月22日毕业,成为第一位在奥克兰大学(University of Auckland)怀帕帕·陶玛塔·劳(Waipapa Taumata Rau)完成物理学博士学位的萨摩亚人,博士研究聚焦于恒星的演化与死亡。
Solomon Islands and Kenya establish diplomatic ties, opening cooperation in agriculture, education, climate and digital sectors. Minister for Foreign Affairs & External Trade Hon. Rick Houenipwela has signed a Joint Communiqué to establish diplomatic relations with Kenya. Foreign Minister Houenipwela signed with Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, H.E. [...]
The post SI and Kenya Formalise Diplomatic Ties in New York appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
所罗门群岛与肯尼亚建立外交关系,开启在农业、教育、气候和数字领域的合作。外交与对外贸易部长瑞克·霍恩尼普维拉(Hon. Rick Houenipwela)签署了一份联合公报,以建立与肯尼亚的外交关系。霍恩尼普维拉外长与肯尼亚首席内阁秘书及外交与侨务事务内阁秘书H.E. [...]
该文章最初发布于 Tavuli News(所罗门群岛)。
BY JOSES SAREN
Ocean Exploration Trust has opened paid 2027 internships for students and fellowships for educators aboard research ship Nautilus.
US historian Jeff Ballard promoted the programs at a US Embassy-hosted media roundtable at Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara yesterday, saying applications are open.
Ballard said he told students and educators at The University of the South Pacific and another local institution about the programs.
The trust’s internship packet says students from Japan and the Pacific Islands are strongly encouraged to apply.
It said the encouragement is part of the trust’s commitment to expeditions developed with communities linked to its expedition locations.
The internships are for community college, technical school, undergraduate and graduate students, and graduates of the last two years.
They cover ocean science, video systems engineering, remotely operated vehicle engineering, and seafloor mapping and hydrography.
Interns spend three to five weeks aboard the ship.
They receive a stipend of about SBD 8,000 a week, with travel to the ship’s port paid by the trust, it detailed.
The packet also sets out limits on who can take part in the internships.
It said participation is limited to US citizens, nationals and lawful permanent residents, and citizens of countries where the program is federally authorised.
Those countries presently include Japan and the Federated States of Micronesia, it added.
The trust expects to offer 15 to 20 internship positions, but said funding has not been confirmed.
The Science Communication Fellowship is for formal and informal educators, the trust’s website says.
It said applicants can include school teachers, museum interpreters and traditional storytellers.
Fellows sail for three to five weeks and share the expedition with classrooms and communities through live commentary and ship-to-shore interactions, the website explained.
It said the fellowship includes paid travel, support while at sea, and a stipend for classroom or community outreach.
The trust also encourages educators from under-resourced schools and those who engage communities near its expedition locations, the website added.
Its 2027 expeditions will run from February to August in the Western Pacific, the internship packet said.
Draft operating areas include the Mariana Islands, Hawai’i, Wake Island and Japan.
Applications for both programs close on October 15.
More details and application links are available at nautiluslive.org/join.
[Photo: The Ocean Exploration Trust’s research ship Nautilus, which carries interns on expeditions. Photo Ocean Exploration Trust. Photo supplied]
Solomon Islands and the Republic of Ghana have formally established diplomatic relations.
This followed the signing of a Joint Communiqué by the respective Foreign Ministers on the margins of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Solomon Islands Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Hon. Rick Houenipwela and Ghanaian Foreign Minister Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa signed the communiqué, marking a new chapter in relations between the two countries.
Minister Ablakwa said Ghana was pleased to formalise relations and looked forward to identifying areas where the two countries could work together.
He highlighted opportunities for cooperation in economic development, democratic institutions and local government, highlighting Ghana’s current economic recovery could provide areas for shared experience and learning.
The Ghanaian Foreign Minister also pointed to the common historical experiences of the two countries and proposed greater people-to-people links, including mobility and exchange programmes in health and education .
He extended an invitation to Minister Houenipwela to visit Ghana as part of efforts to strengthen the new relationship.
Minister Houenipwela described the signing as a historic occasion .
He said the two countries could draw on their shared experiences while exploring practical areas of cooperation.
“ We welcome the opportunity to learn from Ghana, particularly its experience in cocoa production and agriculture as Solomon Islands looks to broaden economic opportunities and strengthen productive sectors,” the Foreign Minister said.
Minister Houenipwela also acknowledged Ghana’s contribution to international affairs, including through the leadership of former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan , who served as the United Nations’ seventh Secretary-General.
The establishment of diplomatic relations expands Solomon Islands’ diplomatic engagement with Africa and creates a new platform for cooperation between the Pacific and West Africa.
Ends//
– OPMC PRESS SECRETARIAT
The post SI, Ghana Forge New Diplomatic Partnership first appeared on Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) .
BY NED GAGAHE
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Council has approved the establishment of a new Centre for Teaching and Learning to strengthen teaching quality and academic support across the university.
The decision was made at the Council’s meeting on September 8, 2026.
A statement from SINU said, the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL) will provide institution-wide support for teaching quality, academic staff development, student learning support, digital learning and academic quality assurance.
Its establishment forms part of SINU’s ongoing transformation and is aligned with the university’s Strategic Plan 2026–2030.
The centre will focus on improving teaching and curriculum quality, professional development for academic staff, learning technologies and blended learning, student academic support, higher education and TVET programmes, and continuous quality improvement.
SINU said the move comes as the university continues to expand its programmes, increase its academic workforce and introduce more flexible approaches to teaching and learning.
The new centre will also become the institutional home of the Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Teaching and Learning (GCHETL) programme.
The programme is currently delivered by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) with funding support from the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
The migration of the programme to SINU is expected to provide continued opportunities for academic staff to gain professional development and formal teaching qualifications.
The Council also supported the integration of existing expertise and resources into the new centre.
This includes the transition of the Distance and Flexible Learning Centre into the CTL and the proposed redeployment of the existing Moodle Support Team from ICT, subject to the university’s organisational review and approval processes.
The proposed staffing structure will include a Director of Teaching and Learning, Academic Developers, Instructional Designers, Learning Technology Support Officers and Learning Advisors.
SINU said implementation will proceed through the university’s planning and approval processes, including consideration of staffing, finances, organisational structure and operational responsibilities.
The new centre is expected to strengthen SINU’s capacity to support academic staff and students and promote more consistent and quality learning experiences across its faculties, institutes, centres and different modes of learning.
BY JOSES SAREN
Solomon Islands is not fully tapping into the tourism potential of its World War II history, according to US naval historian Jeff Ballard.
Speaking at a media roundtable at Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara today, Mr Ballard said Solomon Islands’ WWII history was poorly marketed in the United States despite the strong interest among military history groups.
“The opportunity is tremendous but not being targeted,” he said.
The session was hosted by the US Embassy under the US State Department Speaker Program.
Mr Ballard, who is making his fourth visit to Guadalcanal, said tourism operators should target veterans’ organisations and military history groups, including the 1st Marine Division and Americal Division, rather than relying mainly on magazines and online advertising.
He recalled attending a US travel show in 2024 while representing Military Historical Tours.
“We were the loneliest people in the entire show,” he said.
Mr Ballard said Solomon Islands should also promote lesser-known WWII sites and trails, rather than focusing only on established sites such as Bloody Ridge and Alligator Creek.
He identified the Maruyama Trail and Barana Village as areas with potential for military history tourism.
“Barana looks closer to how it did in 1942 than anywhere else,” he said.
Mr Ballard also highlighted the Galloping Horse ridge near Mount Austen, where US and Japanese forces fought in January 1943.
He described the site as “not a hike for the faint of heart” but said it offered an exceptional experience for visitors interested in battlefield history.
He pointed to Papua New Guinea’s Kapa Kapa Trail, associated with the US 32nd Infantry Division, as an example of how niche military tourism could be developed.
Mr Ballard said Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours, one of the major US historical tour operators, was planning to operate tours in Solomon Islands in the future.
He also plans to return next year for a walk along the Maruyama Trail led by David Holland, host of the Walk Among the Battlefields podcast.
Mr Ballard said Holland’s tours focus on experiencing battlefields directly, without relying on monuments, museums or memorials.
He also highlighted the potential economic benefits of specialised tourism.
Mr Ballard said he had spent about SBD151,000 in Solomon Islands over the past four years, excluding international airfare.
He said divers and fishermen could spend significantly more, while the Ocean Exploration Trust’s NA-173 expedition spent about SBD2 million in Solomon Islands last year on food, fuel, vehicles, generators and security.
Mr Ballard stressed that he was not involved in the tourism industry and that his views were his own.
He also encouraged greater attention to eco-tourism, pointing to Solomon Islands’ unique plants and bird species.
He said educators he had met were also seeking more source materials about their own history, noting the limited access to historical resources.
Mr Ballard is scheduled to speak to secondary school teachers at the National Library tomorrow.
[Photo Caption: Military historian and Editor-in-Chief of Military History Chronicles, Jeffrey Jeff Ballard, at the United States Embassy in Honiara. Photo Joses Saren]
220 nurses urged to prioritise patient safety, professionalism and lifelong learning during supervised practice programme. By: Steven Kamoa Two hundred and twenty nurses taking part in the Nurses Supervised Practice Program have been urged to put patient safety, professionalism and continuous learning at the centre of their clinical practice. The call was made by Layton [...]
The post Nurses Urged to Put Patient Safety at Centre of Practice appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY NED GAGAHE
Hundreds of students are expected to graduate from the University of the South Pacific (USP) Solomon Islands Campus at a graduation ceremony in Honiara this Friday.
The 2026 USP Solomon Islands campus graduation will be held at Friendship Hall from 9am to 1pm on September 25.
USP has invited media to cover the ceremony, which will bring together graduating students from across Solomon Islands.
The chief guest will be the newly appointed USP Chancellor, Governor General of Tuvalu, His Excellency Reverend Sir Tofiga Vaevalu Falani.
The graduation marks an important milestone for students completing their studies at USP and is expected to be attended by families, university officials, government representatives and other invited guests.
The ceremony will begin at 9am and conclude at 1pm.
HCDA releases week one fixtures as 2026 league finally gets underway
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The wait is finally over for Honiara’s darts community, with the 2026 Honiara City Darts League set to get underway today with a busy opening week of competition.
The Honiara City Darts Association (HCDA) has released its week one fixtures, with matches scheduled across four days from Monday, September 21 to Friday, September 25, with all games starting at 6pm.
The association announced the fixtures on its official Facebook page, describing the release as the moment when “the wait is finally over” as teams prepare to begin their respective campaigns.
A total of 26 matches are scheduled for the opening week, with nine fixtures on Monday, eight on Tuesday, another eight on Wednesday and one final match on Friday.
Monday’s opening-night action will be staged across ATL Harbor View Lounge, Chiefs Haus, Happy Pub, Pacific Crown Hotel and Point Cruz Yacht Club.
Among the opening fixtures, Mountol will meet ATL 1 and Southern Arrows 1 will take on Cool Hands at ATL Harbor View Lounge, while Home Spun faces Canoe Cruisers 1 at Chiefs Haus.
Other Monday matches include Birdies Masina against 7G To’os, Bull Pen Crew against MEHRD Haus 2, CPP Precision against FQ Raiders, Brew Masters 2 against City Bulls, Backyard Arrows 2 against MEHRD Haus 1 and Jungle Box against SP Lightning Arrows A.
Tuesday will see another eight matches, including Double Trouble against FQ Blazers and PCYC Sailors 1 against Tovalea at ATL Harbor View Lounge, while M-Street faces Southern Arrows 2 at Happy Pub.
Wednesday’s programme will feature another eight matches, including Birdies Masina against Cool Hands, Mountol against Southern Arrows 1, Canoe Cruisers 1 against Red Beach Raiders 1 and VC Bullets against ATL 1.
The opening week will then conclude on Friday when IE Flights meets MEHRD Haus 1 at Aero Club.
HCDA has reminded all participating teams to arrive in sufficient time before their scheduled matches and ensure players are dressed in their team uniforms.
The association has also called on players, officials and supporters to uphold “sportsmanship, respect and fair play” throughout the season.
Teams have been urged to carefully check their respective match dates, opponents, venues and board allocations ahead of their fixtures.
The opening follows several weeks of preparation by HCDA, including its call for established and new teams to register for the 2026 league.
Earlier in the season, HCDA outlined a three-tier competition structure comprising the Premier Division, Division One and Corporate Division, with promotion and relegation planned between the top two divisions. The association subsequently extended registration after reporting strong interest before finalising its competition schedule.
A hundred and four recruits graduated as police constables during a graduation ceremony held at Rove police headquarters on 18 September 2026.
Several hundred family members, invited guests and officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) witnessed the graduation ceremony at the police club.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Acting Commissioner of RSIPF Mr James Aitorea says, “Today is a proud and significant day for the RSIPF. It is a day of achievement. It is a day of celebration. But above all, it is a day of commitment.”
Acting Commissioner of RSIPF Mr James Aitorea presents his remarks during the graduation ceremony.
13 awardees with their certificates and awards pose for a photo during the graduation ceremony.
Acting Commissioner Aitorea says, “To our graduating recruits, today, you stand before us no longer as recruits but as police officers of the RSIPF. You have earned this privilege through discipline, hard work, sacrifice, physical endurance, mental strength and determination.”
“I welcome you to the RSIPF family. Go forward with confidence. Go forward with discipline. Go forward with courage. Go forward with integrity. And go forward knowing that the people of the Solomon Islands are depending on you. Let your service be your honour,” says Commissioner Aitorea.
Mr Aitorea says, “Let your integrity be your protection. Let your courage be your strength. Let your professionalism be your standard. And let your respect for the people be your legacy.”
The first academic awardee, Police Constable Hudson Trena Warakohia, received his award from the Acting RSIPF Commissioner, Mr James Aitorea.
Police constables receive their certificates with pride as their journey of probation period begins.
He says, “And always remember the uniform may identify you as a police officer—but your character will define you as a police officer. Never forget that the badge does not place you above the community. The badge reminds you that you have a responsibility to the community.”
Guest of Honour at the graduation ceremony, Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Police, National Security and Correctional Services (MPNSC) Mr Trevor Unusu, congratulated the RSIPF for taking the new recruits through the demanding 20-week training programme.
“On behalf of the Minister and the Government, I wish to congratulate the newly graduated police constables as new members of the RSIPF.
Recruit graduate representatives_ Police Constable Collin Dwayn presents his speech on behalf of the passout constables.
Newly graduated officers received their certificates during the graduation ceremony at Rove Headquarters.
PS Unusu says, “As you graduated today, always be reminded that the RSIPF is a disciplined force, and the key to that is that component of discipline, in every manner of that word.”
“Discipline is more than wearing the uniform correctly, following instructions, or maintaining physical fitness. Discipline is the foundation of professional policing. It means controlling your conduct, respecting the law, obeying lawful orders, remaining impartial and doing what is right, even when nobody is watching,” says Mr Unusu.
He says, “A police officer is entrusted with significant powers under law. You may be required to arrest, investigate, protect, restrain and make difficult decisions in situations of conflict and uncertainty. However, these powers must always be exercised lawfully, respectfully, and with respect for human dignity.”
Mr Unusu says, “Discipline must guide your words, your decisions and your behaviour, both on duty and off duty. Your conduct outside the workplace can also affect the reputation and public confidence in RSIPF. You are now vested with responsibility on your shoulders that also comes with high expectations.
He says, “The government expects loyalty, integrity, and professionalism from you, and the RSIPF expects you to uphold its standards and positively contribute to society. Most importantly, the people of the Solomon Islands expect you to protect and serve them fairly and without bias.”
Representative of the graduating recruits, Police Constable (PC) Collin Dwayne says, “I would like to thank the almighty God for continuing blessing during the training period. Though we encountered challenges, temptations and difficulties, we managed to complete the training successfully.”
Constable Dwayn says, “When we first began this journey, many of us came with different dreams, different backgrounds and different reasons for joining the police force. But through our training, we slowly became one team, united by one purpose to serve and protect the people of the Solomon Islands.”
PC Dwayn says, “We stand here wearing our uniforms with pride, but behind these uniforms are stories that cannot always be seen. Early mornings when we were tired, long days when we were pushed beyond our limit, moments when we questioned ourselves and times when we wondered whether we could make it to this day. We made it, and for that we are grateful.”
Officer Dwayn expresses their deepest appreciation to the RSIPF commissioner and executives for giving them the opportunity to serve people and our nation.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) says the sinking of a police speedboat near the western border is a learning experience that highlights the need to strengthen safety measures and technical support for officers operating in the area.
The police vessel, Striker, sank while returning from Choiseul to Lofung in the Shortland Islands after encountering mechanical problems, strong winds and rough seas.
The vessel was reportedly on a patrol mission along the western border when both engines failed while travelling between Uhu and Ilina Island.
Assistant Commissioner of Police, National Operations, Lional Kapisa, said the officers on board tried to remove water entering the vessel but were unable to stop it from filling.
He said strong winds and high swells contributed to the incident, with seawater washing into the vessel from the rear before it eventually sank.
Despite the incident, all officers on board were safely rescued with assistance from people from Samanago in the Shortland Islands and the police team deployed at the Lofung patrol boat outpost.
According to RSIPF media, the vessel was later picked up by villagers at Nikumu in South Bougainville on September 18.
AC Kapisa said the incident had highlighted safety challenges associated with police operations along the western border.
“This incident is a learning experience for us to consider a few challenges on safety and dedicated experts to be stationed at the western border post to mitigate such challenges,” he said.
He said police were now working with relevant authorities to ensure the safe handover of the vessel to police authorities at the western border.
The incident has prompted police to consider additional safety measures and technical expertise for personnel operating in the remote border area.
AC Kapisa said the safe rescue of all officers remained the priority, while arrangements continued concerning the vessel and its eventual recovery or handover.
[Striker 06, the police boat that sank near the western border, was later picked up by villagers at Nikumu in South Bougainville on Friday, September 18.]
BY CHARLES STENNETT
The Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) in collaboration with Tebbutt Research and Solomon Islands National Statistics Office (SINSO) will soon conduct the second National Financial Services Demand Side Survey (FS-DSS) from September to October 2026, including the Makira-Ulawa Province.
The survey is supported by the Asian Development Bank and will cover a nationally representative sample of approximately 992 adults, randomly selected from households across Solomon Islands, including rural, urban and maritime areas.
Provincial Secretary of the Makira Ulawa Provincial Government (MUPG), Chris Waiwori said 21 villages in four wards have been identified for the Survey namely Arosi West, West Bauro, West Wainoni and Star Harbour South.
Mr Waiwori said that the main purpose of the survey is to assist the central bank, government and key stakeholders to gain a better understanding of the needs, preferences and behaviors of all Solomon Islanders regarding the financial services and products.
The survey will also provide insights to evaluate the progress of the National Financial Inclusion Strategy 3 implemented by CBSI from 2021-2025.
In addition, the results of the survey will provide evidence base for policy development, help identify gaps in the provision of financial services and products, inform responses to emerging trends, and support the development of more tailored and appropriate financial products and services.
Mr Waiwori, on behalf of MUPG has conveyed its appreciation to the CBSI, Tebbutt Research and SINSO for the planned survey because it will not only provide the opportunity for the communities to have access to useful financial services and products information but most importantly will create visibility not only for the communities but also the Province in terms of providing a sense of how the Province stands in its financial literacy and consumer empowerment knowledge which will in turn help policy makers create better regulation for financial inclusiveness.
BY DOUGLAS VAHIA
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has expressed profound sadness over the passing of Sir Nathaniel Rahumaea Waena, a former Governor-General, Member of Parliament, senior statesman and one of the founding leaders of the national university.
In a tribute issued by SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau, the university extended condolences to Lady Waena, Sir Nathaniel’s children and family, the people of Ulawa and Ugi, and all Solomon Islanders who were touched by his leadership and service.
Professor Aqorau said Sir Nathaniel dedicated much of his life to serving Solomon Islands and held several important national leadership positions with dignity and distinction.
For SINU, however, his passing carries particular significance because of his role in the establishment and early development of the national university.
Professor Aqorau said Sir Nathaniel was among the courageous leaders who helped make the establishment of a national university possible at a time when there were many uncertainties and no well-established path to follow.
He said establishing a national university was a bold undertaking that required leaders with the vision to look beyond immediate challenges and create greater opportunities for young Solomon Islanders to learn, conduct research and contribute to national development.
As the first Chair and Pro-Chancellor of SINU, Sir Nathaniel helped provide leadership during the university’s formative years.
Professor Aqorau said the decisions made during those early years required patience, wisdom, resolve and faith in the future.
He noted that the university’s students, graduates, lecturers and researchers today form part of the living legacy of the vision held by Sir Nathaniel and other pioneers of the institution.
“Building may bear the name of an institution, but a university is ultimately built upon the courage, conviction and sacrifices of people,” Professor Aqorau said.
He described Sir Nathaniel as one of those people whose contribution has been permanently woven into the history and identity of SINU.
His passing, Professor Aqorau said, leaves an immense void, with the country losing a respected statesman, founding leader and wise elder.
SINU said the most fitting tribute to Sir Nathaniel would be to continue the work he helped begin by building a national university that serves all Solomon Islanders, expanding opportunities for young people and ensuring education remains a force for national unity, development and hope.
Professor Aqorau said Sir Nathaniel had helped plant a seed whose roots now extend throughout Solomon Islands, with generations of students and graduates continuing to benefit from the institution he helped establish.
“Solomon Islands National University will forever remember and honour Sir Nathaniel Rahumaea Waena as one of its founding fathers,” the tribute stated.
The university extended its condolences to Sir Nathaniel’s family and prayed that they would find comfort in knowing that his service transformed many lives and that his legacy would endure for generations.
“Rest in eternal peace, Sir Nathaniel.”
U18 champions credit preparation, discipline and family support
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
WHITE RIVER High School capped its Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s campaign with a convincing 34–7 victory over St John High School to claim the U18 boys’ championship at Town Ground Rugby Stadium on Friday.
The young White River side produced a strong performance in the grand final after several days of competition, with captain Ginia Tengemoana pointing to preparation and hard work as key factors behind the result.
“The biggest difference was our preparation over the past weeks. We trained full-time, including morning sessions,” Tengemoana said.
The captain said the team approached the final with a clear message to leave previous matches behind and focus entirely on the championship decider.
White River High School U18 boys’ Captain Ginia Tengemoana speaks to Island Sun after leading his side to the Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s championship at Town Ground Rugby Stadium on Friday.
“We said, ‘Boys, this is the final now. Put everything we practiced in training into action. Forget everything done in previous games because this final is ours now,’” he said.
Tengemoana also acknowledged the role of supporters and families, saying their presence on the sideline gave the players additional strength.
“I want to thank all the supporters and families who came today. Being on the sidelines gave us the strength to play hard today,” he said.
He dedicated the achievement to the team, families and school while also calling on the players to remain disciplined beyond the tournament.
White River High School U18 players cheer and celebrate in a candid team moment during the Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s at Town Ground Rugby Stadium.
“My final message is to stay disciplined. Many games lie ahead, but if you lack discipline, it will affect you as an individual in future games,” Tengemoana said.
White River’s U18 boys were crowned champions after defeating St John High 34–7, while Honiara High finished third and King George VI fourth.
White River’s success was not limited to the boys, with its U18 girls also crowned champions after overcoming Woodford International School in their grand final. The double championship capped a highly successful National 7s campaign for the school.
[Photo Caption: White River High School U18 boys’ team pose for a group photo shortly before taking the field for their Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s grand final against St John High School at Town Ground Rugby Stadium. Photo: Richard Menanopo]
WVSI provides sanitary kits to girls at remote Turarana School in Guadalcanal to support menstrual hygiene and education. World Vision Solomon Islands (WVSI) is assisting adolescent girls at Turarana Community High School, a remote school in Guadalcanal Province, with sanitary hygiene kits. The support will help girls manage menstruation safely, confidently and with dignity while [...]
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