SINU Vice Chancellor Dr Transform Aqorau calls for greater access to higher education and skills training in the provinces.
By Steven Kamoa
Solomon Islands National University Vice Chancellor Dr Transform Aqorau says greater access to higher education and skills training is needed in the provinces, with geography not preventing young Solomon Islanders from pursuing education and contributing to national development.
Speaking at SINU’s 2026 graduation ceremony last week, Dr Aqorau said the university has a role in bringing education and training opportunities closer to people outside Honiara.
He said the distance between islands can create differences in access to education and other opportunities.
“The distance between islands can become a distance between opportunity and exclusion.”
Dr Aqorau said SINU would need to continue expanding flexible learning and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) pathways for people who cannot easily relocate to Honiara to study.
He said these options could allow more Solomon Islanders to gain qualifications and skills while remaining in their communities.
“The future we shape must reach beyond the capital. It must be possible for a young person in a province to imagine a life of learning and contribution without having to leave their community behind.”
Dr Aqorau also said access to essential services and opportunities, including education, health care, energy, connectivity and livelihoods, should not be concentrated in Honiara.
He said SINU could contribute through flexible learning programmes, expanded TVET opportunities and partnerships with provincial communities, government, industry and other organisations.
The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the importance of research that responds to the needs of communities across Solomon Islands.
He said graduates should be equipped not only to seek employment but also to create opportunities and help address challenges in their communities.
Dr Aqorau identified agriculture, fisheries, health, education, renewable energy, infrastructure and digital connectivity as areas requiring skilled people who understand local needs.
He said the university’s plans should translate into practical opportunities for students and communities.
“Our success will be measured in the opportunities that reach people and the problems we help them solve.”
Dr Aqorau said SINU and its graduates have a role in shaping a future where young people in the provinces can access education and contribute to national development without necessarily having to leave their home islands.
He said expanding opportunities beyond Honiara would be important to ensuring education and skills development reaches communities across Solomon Islands.
