BY CHRIS ALEX
THE Ilia Community High School today celebrated the official handover of its newly completed fencing project, funded by the Government of Australia through the Solomon Islands-Australia partnership.
The ceremony was attended by Australian Deputy High Commissioner Lindsay Buckingham and members of the school board, along with students, teachers, and community representatives.
Ilia Community High School Principal Patrick Ngidua expressed his gratitude for the support from the Australian Government, emphasizing the significance of the project in creating a safer and more conducive learning environment.
“Living in an enclosed environment makes me feel secure and comfortable, especially as we gather here for this special handover ceremony,” Ngidua said.
“This moment has been eagerly awaited, and I want to extend my deepest appreciation to the Australian Government for funding this project. The fencing has not only enhanced security but also improved the overall atmosphere for teaching and learning.”
He highlighted how the fence has positively impacted school operations, making it easier for teachers to monitor students’ movements and maintain discipline.
The new infrastructure, he said, would contribute significantly to the school’s daily activities, including extracurricular programs.
Ngidua also acknowledged the effort and commitment required to secure such funding, emphasizing that the school community must take responsibility for maintaining the fence and ensuring its long-term benefits.
“We should all appreciate and be proud of this support, which has been beneficial to the entire school community. Our responsibility now is to adopt, use, and care for it. Funding like this does not come easily, and we are fortunate to have this project completed successfully,” he stated.
The principal concluded by reaffirming the school’s appreciation for Australia’s ongoing support in the education sector, expressing hope for future collaboration.
“Without the Australian Government’s support, this fence would not have been possible. We celebrate this success today with great pride, and we look forward to continued partnership in the future,” he said.
The event marked another milestone in the Solomon Islands-Australia partnership, which continues to play a key role in improving school infrastructure and supporting quality education in the region.
