The Solomon Islands Education Board (SIEB) successfully convened its inaugural meeting on 29th-30th April at the Mendana Hotel.
Established under the new Education Act 2023, the SIEB is tasked with providing strategic advice to the Minister of Education, the Permanent Secretary, and the staff of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) on key educational matters affecting the education system.
The Board also considers new developments that will shape the future of the nation’s education system.
The new Education Board consists of seven members appointed by the Minister for Education, in accordance with sections 11(1) and (2) and section 12(1)(8) of the Education Act 2023.
The members of the Board are: Alfred Ghemu (Chairperson), Simiha Bella (Deputy Chairperson), George Eric, George Ongoa, Doris Puiahi, Pr. David Filo, Dr. Abraham Hauriasi, and Dr. Franco Rodie.
The first day of the meeting focused on presentations by the MEHRD Senior Management Team. The topics covered included: 2024 national examination results, MEHRD reform and development partnerships, teacher classification and salary structure, the Education Legislative Framework Implementation Plan (2025-2028), agency agreements with provincial governments, and the Provincial Education Board.
These papers provided the new Board members with a foundational understanding of the current state of education, ongoing reform efforts, the legal and regulatory landscape, and the operational frameworks within which they will work.
On the second day, the Board deliberated on several key agenda items requiring decisions. These included the; Alternative Learning Framework, the National Assessment System, the structure of the Revised Education System, and the standardization of working hours for ECE teachers, supervisors, and school teachers and principals.
In his opening remarks, the Minister of Education, Hon. Tozen Leokana, emphasized the significant role the Board has been entrusted with.
“At this pivotal moment in our nation’s educational journey, you have been entrusted with a vital role—to advise the Minister, Permanent Secretary, and the staff of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development on matters that will shape the future of education in our country,” said Minister Leokana.
He urged the Board to collaborate effectively, rise above challenges, and lay the foundation for a brighter future. “Together, we can make education the most powerful tool for national development. Together, we can shape a future where every Solomon Islands child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. Together, we can nurture a generation of peace-loving citizens who respect one another and take pride in calling Solomon Islands their home,” he added.
The Chair of the SIEB Board, Mr. Alfred Ghemu, acknowledged the Senior Management Team for their valuable contributions to the discussions on the motion papers presented. He recognized that the information shared had provided a crucial foundation for the Board’s deliberations and would inform their future guidance. The Board has embraced this guidance and will review it before the next meeting.
– MEHRD
