Australia has officially launched the Pacific Australia Skills program in Solomon Islands, reaffirming its long-term commitment to advancing skills development and training opportunities across the country.
The launch was officiated by Australia’s Assistant Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Senator the Hon. Nita Green, during her short visit to Honiara last week.
The launching event was held at the Kwaimani Building along the Kukum Highway.
The Pacific Australia Skills program continues Australia’s longstanding support for skills, training and employment in the Pacific region.
In her keynote address, Assistant Minister Green said the initiative represents an investment in people, opportunity, and the future of Solomon Islands—particularly its youth.
Earlier that same morning, she met some of the first students enrolled in the training program, who showcased their practical skills in preparing beverages such as juice and coffee.
“Their enthusiasm and dedication to learn new skills is inspiring, and it’s a reminder that this program provides more than qualifications—it builds confidence and creates pathways to new opportunities,” she said.
The program builds on the achievements of the former Australian Pacific Training Coalition (APTC), which helped more than 8,600 Solomon Islanders gain qualifications through full programs, short courses, and micro-credentials.
“These achievements reflect the hard work and commitment of Solomon Islanders and show what is possible when we work together in partnership,” Assistant Minister Green added.
A key focus of the new program is to equip young people—who make up more than 80 percent of the population under the age of 35—with market-ready skills and clear career pathways.
Training will target high-demand sectors including construction, hospitality, agriculture, and emerging green industries.
“With more than 80 percent of the population under the age of 35, young people are this nation’s most valuable asset, and they are ready to contribute, to innovate and to lead,” she said.
Assistant Minister Green also emphasised that the program is inclusive, targeting women and girls, people with disabilities, and those living in rural communities.
Joining her at the launch was the Minister of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD), Hon. Tozen Leokana, who pledged the Solomon Islands Government’s full commitment to ensuring the program’s successful implementation in alignment with national priorities and the new TVET policy.
“We stand ready to work closely, transparently and collaboratively with the Pacific Australia Skills program team,” Leokana said.
“We will provide the support necessary to ensure that this program works effectively and achieves its intended outcome of producing a high-quality, well-prepared labour force capable of actively building our nation.”
The program will also complement the PALM scheme by preparing workers for overseas deployment and supporting them to apply their skills upon returning home.
Pacific Australia Skills will work closely with Solomon Islands institutions, including MEHRD, the Solomon Islands Tertiary Education and Skills Authority, training providers, employers and communities—reinforcing Australia’s role as a committed partner in helping build a skilled, resilient and prosperous nation.
By AGNES MENANOPO
Solomon Star, Honiara
