BY JOY OFASIA
The Minister for Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD), Hon. Tozen Leokana, officially opened the 2025 School Principals’ Conference with an inspiring message of unity, appreciation, and purpose at the Lecture Theatre, Panatina Campus, Honiara.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Leokana described the gathering as a vital event for shaping the future of education in the Solomon Islands, recognizing the dedication of school principals and the critical role they play in students’ learning and well-being.
“It’s truly a delight to be with you at this opening ceremony of the 2025 School Principals’ Conference. I’m deeply honoured to inaugurate this vital event,” said Hon. Leokana.
The two-day conference brought together school leaders from across the country to share insights, explore challenges, and strengthen collaboration. With the theme centered on improving school leadership and educational outcomes, the Minister emphasized the importance of the role principals play in driving positive change.
“To all the dedicated principals and educators, I extend to you my warmest of welcomes,” he said. “There’s no doubt that the job you do is a complex and challenging one, but it can also be hugely rewarding. As school leaders, you can make a real difference to the learning and well-being of students in your schools.”
Hon. Leokana expressed deep appreciation for the support received from national and international partners, acknowledging that meaningful progress in education requires collaboration.
“I also want to express my thanks to the Governments of Solomon Islands, Australia, and New Zealand for their continued and generous support to the education sector,” he said. “Your sponsorship of this year’s School Principals’ Conference is yet another testament to our enduring partnership.”
He also recognized the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) for hosting the event and thanked the Vice Chancellor for offering the university’s facilities, including dormitories and lecture halls, to accommodate participants.
Beyond welcoming participants, the Minister urged principals to see the conference as a rare opportunity not just for learning, but for leading with renewed energy.
“This conference is not just a meeting of minds—it is a call to action,” Hon. Leokana declared. “Let us emerge from this conference not only with new knowledge but with renewed purpose. Our country needs school leaders who can turn vision into action, and policy into progress.”
He encouraged principals to share professional challenges and work together to find practical solutions, both through formal sessions and informal conversations. “This collaboration helps build influence,” he added.
The Minister also extended heartfelt thanks to the MEHRD Taskforce for their dedication in organizing the event and ensuring the presence of principals from all provinces.
“Your collective efforts have not only ensured a well-prepared program but also made it possible for every invited principal to attend. Let me congratulate you for setting a high standard for collaboration and service to education in the Solomon Islands.”
Hon. Leokana later wished participants a successful and enriching conference and officially declared the event open.
“May your deliberations be meaningful, your insights profound, and your leadership truly transformational. I have much pleasure in declaring the conference open. Tagio tumas,” he said.
The 2025 School Principals’ Conference ends today, with sessions focusing on leadership strategies, policy implementation, and future planning for Solomon Islands’ education system.
