ACOM Rolls Out Positive Parenting Program Across Dioceses

ACOM Solomon Islands launches week-long Positive Parenting Training to empower families and strengthen communities across Solomon Islands.

A strong step towards building better families is now underway as the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM) rolls out a week-long Positive Parenting Training of Trainers Program, set to be delivered across various dioceses in the country, with key support from partners including World Vision.

The initiative is aimed at strengthening the foundation of society — the family — by equipping trainers with the knowledge and skills to guide parents in raising confident, responsible, and resilient children. The program focuses on positive parenting, effective communication, and creating safe and supportive home environments.

The Anglican Church of Melanesia President of the Mothers’ Union, Sandra Rolands, says the training comes at a critical time as communities face growing social challenges. By equipping parents through trained facilitators, the program is expected to help tackle issues such as gender-based violence, social injustice, and poverty, while also strengthening family resilience and relationships.

“Parenting is a responsibility that shapes futures, influences communities, and determines the path for generations. Yet it is a role that comes without a manual, constantly challenged by the evolving realities of our modern world,” she said.

One of the longest-serving pioneers of the initiative since it began in 2011 is Lady Mary Vunagi, a facilitator. She highlighted that this is the time to revisit our foundations, families and homes before we can see change in society.

“It is very important for this nation. We need to build a positive society, and if we want to see change, we need to invest in our families, especially in parenting. Many young people are lost and do not even understand the importance of positive parenting.

“ As parents, we need to recognise the important role we play in our homes, whatever approaches we take will shape what society becomes in the future,” Lady Mary added.

Over the course of the week, selected participants from different dioceses, church groups, and community organisations will undergo intensive training. Once completed, they will return to their communities as trainers, delivering parenting programs and supporting families at the grassroots level.

The President of the Mothers’ Union Sandra added that although the initiative is very important, a lack of support and collaboration remains one of the biggest gaps in ensuring the program continues successfully.

“This is not only for ACOM churches. We want to expand it to other denominations in Solomon Islands because the role of churches in the community is significant. Even though we face challenges, we try our very best,” she said.

Church leaders emphasise that parenting shapes the future of children, communities, and the nation. In today’s fast-changing world, many parents face increasing pressures and challenges without adequate guidance. This Training of Trainers program is therefore more than just a workshop — it is a long-term investment in people and in the wellbeing of future generations.

Speaking on behalf of the ACOM church, Mission Secretary Father Nelson Bako highlighted the importance of the program, saying this is just the beginning and will expand to other churches.

“My biggest dream and vision is to have the program reach other denominations, so they too can understand and value the importance of positive family pathways in communities across the country,” Father Nelson said.

Currently the cohort has been selected from the following Diocese and organization, Diocese of Guadalcanal, Diocese of central Melanesia, include, Diocesan Youth and mothers union office, Parishes, St Barnabas Cathedral, All Saints and St Alban Parish including supportive member for Christian care Centre and Provincial mothers union office.

With the program set to expand across dioceses nationwide, organisers are confident its impact will go beyond the training room, helping to nurture stronger families, healthier communities, and a more hopeful future for children throughout the Solomon Islands.

By Jeremy Gwao