THE Australian High Commission was proud to send ten future public sector leaders from across the Solomon Islands Government to Australia on a prestigious Canberra Fellowships Program from 3 to 10 March 2024.
The chosen guests were very experienced officials from a broad cross section of the Solomon Islands public service, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Ministry of Infrastructure Development, Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification, Ministry of Health and Medical Services and Ministry of Police National Security and Correctional Services.
Over eight days the guests and DFAT visit liaison officers travelled to Brisbane, Canberra and Sydney to meet and exchange views with senior leaders in government, private sector and academia.
They also developed their leadership and public sector service skills through training with experts.
The group designated leader Dr Emmanuel Joseph Iyabora, former Policy Secretary at OPMC said, “The well-structured itinerary, engaging sessions, and interactions with esteemed professionals have broadened our perspectives and will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our roles as future public sector leaders in the Solomon Islands.”
In Canberra and Sydney the group discussed Australia’s development assistance in Solomon Islands and met with academics from the Australian National University Pacific Security College and the Lowy Institute.
In Brisbane, the group learned about Australia’s trade links with the Pacific from Queensland’s Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner for the Pacific, Leata Alaimoana.
His Excellency Mr Robert Sisilo, High Commissioner for the Solomon Islands in Australia said, “The Solomon Islands welcomes efforts by the Australian Government to engage with emerging leaders from our public sector as part of our broad and deep bilateral relationship. The Canberra Fellowships program is a welcome example of this.”
Australian High Commissioner Rod Hilton said, “Australia is committed to strengthening the growing people-to-people links and trade and investment ties between Australia and the Solomon Islands. I am grateful to our Solomon Islands guests for taking time out of their busy schedules and being away from family to learn about Australia, share their insights and to strengthen the Solomon Islands-Australia partnership. I look forward to collaborating with you in Solomon Islands and watching you advance in your fields.”
The group also had the chance to experience Australia’s cultural highlights at Taronga Zoo and attend an A-league football match in Sydney. The group shared plenty of laughs, stories and have made lasting personal and professional connections.
