Honiara –The JICA Solomon Islands Office has welcomed four new Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCVs), who arrived in Honiara on 30th July 2025.
They will undergo a series of orientation activities, including Pijin language lessons and a village stay program in Tamboko, Guadalcanal Province.
Each of the new volunteers will contribute to key sectors across the country.
Mr. Kosaka, a physical education teacher, will be assigned to Solomon Islands National University (SINU).
Upon arrival, he shared his first impressions: “The Solomon Islands immediately struck me with its beautiful ocean and mountains—it’s truly refreshing.
“The national flag, visible throughout the city, represents the sea, forest, and sun with its blue, green, and yellow colours. It’s stunning. Everyone I’ve met in town has been so friendly. I’m looking forward to life here.”
Ms. Mifuyu, assigned to the Honiara City Council (HCC) as an environmental education officer, expressed her motivation: “My goal is to help make Honiara a more comfortable and livable environment. I’ve noticed a large amount of litter on the streets and the absence of waste separation, which is very different from Japan.
“ For now, I’ll focus on building relationships with the local community and adapting to daily life here.”
At FM Campbell School in Makira-Ulawa Province, Ms. Hana will serve as a PE teacher. She hopes to promote a broad understanding of sports beyond physical activity: “I want students to not only enjoy playing sports but also appreciate the experience of watching games, supporting others, and engaging with sports in many ways. From the perspective of lifelong physical activity, I hope to inspire even one more student to stay involved with sports throughout their lives.”
Ms. Naomi, who will teach Japanese at SINU, emphasized the wider goal of cultural exchange: “Through my Japanese language classes, I hope to contribute to the development of the Solomon Islands’ tourism sector.
“However, I don’t want to stop at just language instruction—I also wish to share Japanese values, manners, and culture with the people here.”
With these additions, the total number of JOCVs currently working in the Solomon Islands has reached 26.
The JICA Office plans to share future updates on the volunteers’ contributions through its official channels.
