Government announces infrastructure, transport, and water support for the SDC School to improve special needs education
Minister for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) Ricky Fuo’o has announced the Government for National Unity and Transformation’s (GNUT) support towards the Solomon Islands Red Cross Society (SIRCS)-managed Special Development Centre (SDC) School.
Speaking as guest of honor during the school’s closing ceremony, Fuo’o highlighted the importance of inclusion, support, and community partnership.
Key Announcements by the Minister
SDC School Bus Repair and Procurement of a New Bus:
The MID Mechanical Unit has repaired the school’s current bus, which had been out of service for several months. The ministry has also allocated funds to purchase a brand-new bus, designed to be safe and suitable for students with special needs.
Infrastructure Upgrades:
The MID Architect and Building Management Division has completed an assessment of the school’s infrastructure. Tenders for a new drainage system, aimed at preventing flooding, are expected to be released soon. Additional facility upgrades will follow after further assessments.
Fuo’o expressed the government’s appreciation to the Australian Government and the Australian High Commission in Honiara for their swift support toward these improvement works.
Access to Clean Water:
Following discussions with Solomon Sheet Steel management, the company has committed to drilling a borehole within the school compound to provide reliable access to clean water, improving hygiene and health conditions for students and staff.
“I promise—this is just the beginning. We will continue to support you. We will continue to improve your school.
“Together, we will make sure that every child in the Solomon Islands can learn, grow, and shine,” Fuo’o said, adding that students with special needs have potential and can achieve great things.
He encouraged a shift in societal attitudes to focus on abilities rather than disabilities.
“We must look beyond disabilities and see abilities. We must see potential, not problems. We must see the person, not just the challenge—to ensure that no one is left behind.”
The Central Kwara’ae parliament member also highlighted the role of teachers, parents, and guardians as key supporters in the development of every child.
School Administration and Student Voices
School Principal Jiope Iputu noted the significant challenges in providing quality education for children with special needs.
“Currently, we lack a formal curriculum for children with special needs, relying only on generic guidelines.
“Despite policies advocating for inclusive education, many students are still referred back to us from mainstream schools, which face their own challenges in supporting children with special needs,” Iputu said.
He urged the government to increase scholarship opportunities for teachers specializing in special needs education.
“Our facilities, over 48 years old, are deteriorating due to weathering and flooding, affecting both infrastructure and student learning.
“We call on parents, communities, and the government to support our efforts—by participating in school activities, providing basic needs, and fostering a collaborative approach to education.”
Iputu, who has served at the school for 11 years, acknowledged Fuo’o for accepting their invitation, noting that it is the first time a parliament representative has attended their year-end ceremony.
Student representative April Manegaua, speaking through a sign language interpreter, posed a crucial question: “What is the state of inclusive education today?”
She called on authorities to address the barriers faced by students with special needs and to improve access to education and future career pathways.
Perspectives from the Solomon Islands Red Cross Society
Acting Secretary General of the SIRCS, Joanne Zoleveke, spoke about the organization’s challenges over the past two years and their current recovery efforts. She noted ongoing work to finalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the education and lands divisions to secure land title for the school’s site at Rifle Range and address related formalities.
School Overview
Total enrolment stands at 89 students with various impairments. The closing ceremony also marked the graduation of three senior students who will transition to other training centers.
The school recently drew public attention when student Francis Dina highlighted ongoing challenges during International Children’s Day celebrations in Honiara. Online media groups, particularly Tavuli News, amplified the issue, prompting widespread discussion and calls for increased support for the special needs community.
The school offers a range of learning modules, including Basic Literacy and Numeracy, Basic Life Skills and Livelihood Program, Children’s Interest Program, Basic Physiotherapy and Education Program, and Braille classes for visually impaired students.
The closing ceremony, attended by parents, board members, and partner agencies, concluded with student performances and a shared lunch.
SOURCE : Ministry of Infrastructure Development
