THE Malaita Provincial Education Authority has emphasized the importance of raising the standards of Physical Education (PE) teaching in the province, following the launch of a six-day training program for local teachers earlier this week.
A total of 30 teachers are participating in this first-ever PE training initiative, sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China and facilitated by Shandong Foreign Trade Vocational College.
Education authorities in Malaita see the program as an essential step in strengthening holistic education, as PE plays a key role in promoting health, teamwork, discipline, and leadership among students.
Malaita’s Chief Education Officer, Mr. Andy Siarani, highlighted that unlocking the full potential of PE requires teachers to be well-equipped with the right skills, knowledge, and modern coaching techniques.
“This coaching capacity-building program is vital for schools in Malaita. It will empower PE teachers to become effective mentors and role models,” Mr. Siarani said.
He added that the training will provide teachers with innovative methods to engage students, address diverse learning needs, and create inclusive environments where all students can thrive.
“By enhancing our coaching skills, we can encourage healthier lifestyles, build students’ confidence, and foster a lifelong love for physical activity,” he explained.
Mr. Siarani further stressed that the training not only keeps teachers updated with the latest instructional methods but also promotes the sharing of best practices, strengthens collaboration among educators, and builds networks of professional support for continuous growth.
Malaita is the second province in the Solomon Islands to benefit from this China-sponsored PE training initiative.
Western Province is the first to benefit under the training.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
