Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Rod Hilton joined Solomon Islands Government ministers, students, staff, and community leaders at Malaita Provincial Technical Institute to celebrate the awarding of 78 Australia Skills Awards scholarships and reaffirm Australia’s commitment to creating local jobs through skills development in Solomon Islands.
On his recent visit to Fiu, Central Kwara’ae, High Commissioner Hilton officially handed over Personal Protective Equipment and uniforms to scholarship recipients—young Solomon Islanders pursuing studies in Automotive Engineering and Building Construction.
These students are among the 632 recipients of Australia Skills Awards across ten Rural Training Centres in 2025.
The event was also attended by Hon. Ricky Fuo’o, Minister for Infrastructure and Development; Hon. Rexon Ramofafia, Minister of National Planning and Development Coordination; Hon. Daniel Suilea Waneoroa, Minister of Rural Development; Hon. Matthew Wale, Leader of the Opposition; Hon. John Maneniaru Member for West Are’are and Hon. Claudius Tei’ifi, Member for West Kwaio.
Guests were warmly welcomed by the Malaita Provincial Technical Institute students through a traditional garlanding ceremony and cultural performances.
High Commissioner Hilton said vocational education has the power to transform lives. “Skills are the backbone of economic development, and Australia is proud to stand alongside the Solomon Islands Government in our shared commitment to expanding access to quality technical and vocational education and training.
“Together, we are working to ensure that Solomon Islanders have every opportunity to gain work-ready skills and qualifications—so they can secure meaningful employment.”
The equipment handover included essential safety gear such as work boots, hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and uniforms—ensuring students are equipped to train safely and professionally.
Australia’s support to the Malaita Provincial Technical Institute has also included infrastructure, equipment, and professional development for trainers, including a vehicle hoist, student laptops, and the construction of an automotive barn for hands-on learning.
Attendees at the event heard stories from scholarship recipients, undertook a tour of the training facility and observed a student demonstration, showcasing the practical work-ready skills being developed at the Malaita Provincial Technical Institute.
Australia remains committed to working with the Solomon Islands Government to strengthen the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector and create more job opportunities for Solomon Islanders—ensuring that every student has the chance to build a bright future for themselves, their families, and their communities.
– AHC
