Marao, 20 August 2026 – A newly completed 8-block double-storey classroom building has been officially handed over to Marao Community High School in Central Kwaarae, Malaita Province, marking a major investment in modern and more conducive learning spaces for students.
The facility, valued at SI$1.8 million, was constructed by Trade Works Contractors Limited and is one of the infrastructure deliverables supported through the Education Sector Support Program, a partnership between the Solomon Islands Government – MEHRD, Australia – DFAT and New Zealand – MFAT.
Upon arrival in Auki, the MEHRD delegation received a surprise protocol-level welcome at the wharf by the Provincial Education Office before being escorted to the Premier’s Office for a courtesy visit. The delegation then travelled to Marao community straight after the courtesy visit, for the official handover of the newly constructed classroom building to the Marao Community High School.
The handover ceremony was attended by provincial leaders, education officials, church representatives, teachers, students, landowners and community members.
Opening the speeches was Marao CHS Principal, acknowledging donors and expressing appreciation for the completion and handover of the new facility, describing it as a significant milestone for the school, its students and the wider Marao community and encouraged the community to use the facility with care.
Australia High Commission rep, Senior Program Manager – Education, Brenda Mauli also acknowledged the ESSP partnership and reiterated Australia’s commitment to support the Solomon Islands Education sector.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister for Education and Human Resources Development, Hon. Stephen Kumi, said the new classroom block represents opportunities for hundreds of students and will help prepare future leaders, teachers, nurses, engineers, business people and responsible citizens of Central Kwara’ae, Malaita Province and Solomon Islands.
“A school is not measured by the size of its buildings alone, but by the quality of education it provides and the character it develops in its students”, Minister Kumi said.
Minister Kumi also linked the classroom investment to the Government’s Free Education Policy, saying the policy reaffirms the Government’s commitment to making education more accessible and affordable for every Solomon Islands child, while recognising the continued shared responsibility of education providers, parents and communities.
He paid tribute to the South Sea Evangelical Church as the education provider of Marao Community High School, acknowledging its long-standing role in shaping students through quality teaching, discipline, Christian values and community partnership.
The Minister also honoured the late Honourable Fiulaua, former MP for Central Kwara’ae, whose vision and commitment helped initiate the project through constituency funding. He said the completed facility stands as a lasting legacy of his dedication to education and community development.
Minister Kumi encouraged students to value the new facility, take good care of it and make full use of the opportunities it provides, adding that education remains the key that opens doors to a brighter future.
The handover event ended day 1 of the 2-day program for the MEHRD and guests visit. Alegegeo was also part of the delegation’s 2 day program.
