Australia provides SINU with over SBD2 million in computers and learning resources to strengthen digital and inclusive education.
Australia has handed over more than SBD2 million worth of computers, ICT equipment and learning resources to Solomon Islands National University (SINU), strengthening digital learning, inclusive education and student support services. This builds on Australia’s step-up of education support over 2026 to support the Government’s free education policy vision.
The handover, held at the SINU Kukum Campus Library, was attended by Minister for Education and Human Resources Development Stephen Kumi, Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, SINU Pro Vice-Chancellor Corporate Dr. William Parairato, and Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities Dr Patricia Rodie.
Australia’s support includes:
- 50 laptops for a new computer laboratory for the Faculty of Education and Humanities
- 1,000 Inclusive Education Manuals
- 200 refurbished laptops pre-loaded with curriculum resources for final-year teaching students to borrow and use during teaching practicum
- 72 desktop computers, computer tables, a television and ICT accessories for SINU libraries, and
- Five television sets to support the hosting of the Oceania Comparative and International Education Society (OCIES) Conference in November 2026.
The investment took place under the DFAT-SINU Memorandum of understanding, signed in 2024, which supports collaboration in higher education, skills development, governance, inclusion, and climate resilience.
Speaking at the handover, Minister for Education, Hon. Stephen Kumi said, “We thank the Government and people of Australia for their continued support to education in Solomon Islands.”
“These digital tools and inclusive learning resources will strengthen the preparation of our future teachers and help them create classrooms where every child has the opportunity to learn and succeed.”
Australia High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach said:
“These investments build on Australia’s longstanding partnership with SINU. It is inspiring to visit SINU today and to see the students already busily using the computers: clearly, this support is going to make a difference.”
“Laptops and computers may be valuable, but the biggest value this equipment will bring is resourcing students’ minds with creativity that will shape the future of Solomon Islands.”
During his remarks at the handover event, SINU Acting Vice-Chancellor and Pro Vice-Chancellor Corporate, Dr William Parairato said, “Today, we officially receive ICT equipment, accessories, and very importantly, Inclusive Education Resources funded by the Australian Government. This is not merely a donation of hardware. It is a donation of opportunity.”
“In our rapidly evolving digital world, access to information and communication technology is no longer a luxury; it is a fundamental pillar of modern education. The computers and accessories we receive today will bridge the digital divide for our students, allowing them to conduct research, collaborate globally, and develop the tech-savviness required in today’s job market.”
The investment is expected to contribute to a more inclusive and digitally connected higher education sector in Solomon Islands, supporting students and educators with the resources needed for learning, teaching and future employment.
SOURCE// AUSTRALIA HIGH COMMISSION TO HONIARA
