Australia’s Acting High Commissioner Emily Flahive says that sustainable growth in the Solomon Islands depends on strengthening professional relationships.
She highlighted this when addressing accountants at the recent Institute of Solomon Islands Association (ISIA) Congress 2025 held at the Heritage Park Hotel, Honiara.
Ms Flahive highlighted Australia’s support for Professional Diploma in Accounting (PDA) program, describing it as a key investment in public sector transparency and regional collaboration.
The PDA program, delivered in partnership with the ISIA has provided more than 116 scholarships to public service employees since its launch.
She said, the initiative was helping to build a skilled and ethical accounting workforce capable of supporting national development goals.
“Ministries participated in the program are already seeing improvements in financial management and audit capacity,” Flahive said.
According to Flahive, the third cohort of students are currently completing their diplomas and ministries that participated in the programme have reported positive outcomes, demonstrating the diploma’s effectiveness in building capacity and strengthening governance.
Flahive also announced continued funding for the next cohort of PDA students, reaffirming Australia’s long-term commitment to capacity-building in the Solomon Islands.
She said, the partnership reflects a shared vision for inclusive growth and professional excellence.
“The PDA is not just a training program; it is vital step in supporting the growth of a skilled and professional accounting workforce in the Solomon Islands,” she said.
The ISIA Congress brought together accountants, policymakers, and development partners to discuss reforms in financial governance, a focus on collaboration, ethics, and regional intergration.
By ANDRIANAH DEALASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
