BY JOY OFASIA
A new chapter in the education journey of Guadalcanal Province began yesterday with the official signing of an agency agreement between the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) and the Guadalcanal Provincial Government.
The signing ceremony took place at the Honiara Hotel and was hosted by the Honorable Premier of Guadalcanal Province, Hon. Willie Atu. Speaking at the event, Premier Atu described the moment as a significant milestone for education in the province.
For many in Guadalcanal, the signing is a hopeful step toward better schools, stronger communities, and brighter futures for students across the province.

“This day marks a historic and transformative milestone in the education journey of Guadalcanal Province, and I am deeply honored to witness and take part in this signing of the agency agreement,” he said.
Premier Atu noted that the agreement goes beyond paperwork, symbolizing a strong partnership and shared responsibility between the national and provincial governments, as outlined in the Education Act 2023.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of Education and Human Resources Development, Hon. Tozen Leokana, highlighted the importance of collaboration in delivering quality education, especially in rural and remote areas.
“Through this agreement, Guadalcanal Province is entrusted with specific responsibilities on behalf of the Ministry — from coordinating school operations, supporting school planning, facilitating teacher and school leader performance, to ensuring compliance with our national education standards,” she said.
The event was attended by officials from MEHRD, Guadalcanal Provincial leaders, school principals, and student representatives — all celebrating the beginning of what many called a “new era” in education.
The agency agreement is part of ongoing reforms under the Education Act 2023, aiming to strengthen the delivery of education services and promote cooperation between national and provincial authorities.