The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) in partnership with the Solomon Islands Australia Partnership, has taken a historic step to strengthen national resilience and regional leadership by officially launching the Postgraduate Diploma in Security Studies.
This program is the first of its kind to be offered in the Southwest Pacific.
Designed to equip Solomon Islanders with advanced skills to tackle complex security challenges, this program marks a new era of sovereign learning and strategic capacity building.
The launching was held at SINU’s Panatina Campus, East Honiara and brought together government leaders, diplomats, academics, and students, highlighting the program’s significance as a national priority and a regional milestone.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Patricia Rodie, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities, emphasized the transformative nature of the program.
“This launch is more than just an academic milestone—it is a declaration of our intent to shape Solomon Islands’ security narrative from within. We are empowering our own people to analyze, respond to, and lead in issues related to national and regional security.”
Dr. Rodie acknowledged the collaborative efforts behind the development of the program, particularly the support from the Australian Government, and praised the faculty and administration teams for their dedication.
In his keynote address, Hon. Jimson Tanaganda, Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, described the launch as a serious responsibility and a strategic turning point. “This event marks more than just an academic milestone. It reflects national leadership, international partnership, and a forward-looking policy direction, all aimed at strengthening the long-term security of our nation.”
He linked the program directly to the National Security Strategy 2025-2028, which was launched earlier this year and prioritizes resilient institutions and localized responses to emerging threats. “We must generate and own our strategies. This program empowers us to do just that. These pioneers will form a new generation of thinkers, practitioners, and leaders in national security.”
Representing Australia’s enduring partnership with the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, the Australian High Commissioner, delivered a heartfelt and visionary speech.
“Today’s launch is a landmark achievement, making the Solomon Islands the first country in the Southwest Pacific to offer a postgraduate program in security studies. It is a Pacific-first achievement that is truly worthy of celebration.”
Hilton praised the collaborative spirit behind the program’s rapid development—from design to delivery in just eight months—and emphasized Australia’s commitment to supporting locally led solutions. “This is not just about words. It is about us listening to you, learning from you, acting with you, and delivering outcomes for Solomon Islanders, with Solomon Islanders.”
He highlighted that education and professionalization are vital to every sector, especially the important security sector. This program builds local capability, fosters academic excellence, and strengthens the security of the Solomon Islands from within.
Developed in partnership with the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership, the curriculum covers topics such as transnational crime, maritime law, climate security, cyber threats, and crisis coordination. It is tailored for professionals across law enforcement, border security, public administration, and civil society.
By ANDRIANAH DELASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
