WORK on a two-storey Fisheries Training Complex for the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) at Ranadi Campus is expected to start soon.
This was after the university and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) held a ground-breaking ceremony for the project, Friday.
KOICA is funding the project, which will be carried out by Hatanga Construction.
The KOICA office said construction is part of the grant project for “establishment and Capacity Building of Fisheries Studies in the Solomon Islands.”
The project aims to help SINU to have a sustainable fisheries education system and enhance skills and qualification of the Solomon Islanders in fisheries.
The complex will cost $2.5 million and will have lecture halls, library, staff offices and three labs for aquaculture, fish processing and fishing technology.
The construction is expected to be completed by mid 2017.
SINU Vice Chancellor, Dr Glynn Galo said it is a very proud moment and occasion for the univeristy.
“This new educational complex will definitely improve the quality and standard of our learning facilities of the university,” Dr Galo said.
“We are looking forward to Hatanga Construction delivering this high quality facility. And we all looking forward to the day when the complex is completed, keys delivered and classes formally held in the facilities,” he added.
Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resource, John Maneniaru said the ceremony marked the true partnership between SINU and KOICA and reflects the commitment by the government of Korea to stand together with Solomon Islands to achieve its aspirations.
“In the field of fisheries, especially tuna fisheries, Korea and Solomon Islands have a long cordial history and relationship,” Mr Meniniaru said.
“The Korean fishing fleet is the strongest fishing fleet operating in Solomon Islands waters in the past decade, therefore fitting for the Korea Government through KOICA to stand together with SINU’s fisheries Department and programme,” he added.
“I am delighted today as this simple ground breaking ceremony bonds our two countries even more as Solomon Islands strives to create a conductive environment for its children to achieve their dreams in life.
“The new fisheries department and its programmes will no doubt be a platform and an entrepreneurial tool for many young Solomon Islanders to develop themselves in the fields of fisheries science, aquaculture and fisheries economics.
“Those will go through this department will without doubt contributes to the development of our nation.”
By LESLEY SANGA
