BY JOY OFASIA
The 2025 School Principals’ Conference opened this week at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Panatina Campus, with the Minister of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD), Hon. Tozen Leokana, delivering his key remarks on the theme of the three-day event: “Creating a Better Future for Our Children through Transformational Leadership.”
Held from June 25–27, the conference brought together school principals from across the country for professional development, shared learning, and motivation to lead with purpose.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Leokana said the conference theme was more than just a title—it was a reminder of what truly matters in education.
“The theme of this year’s conference—‘Creating a Better Future for Our Children in Solomon Islands through Transformational Leadership’—is timely, thought-provoking, and deeply relevant,” he said. “It calls each of us to reflect not just on our roles as education leaders, but on our purpose.”
He reminded the principals that their job goes far beyond managing schools.
“We are not here simply to manage schools,” the Minister said. “We are here to shape lives, to nurture dreams, to build a generation of young Solomon Islanders equipped not just with knowledge, but with values, resilience, and the confidence to shape their futures.”
Hon. Leokana explained that transformational leadership isn’t about titles or status—it’s about values and vision.
“In my opinion, transformational leadership is not about power, position, or prestige. It is about influence, vision, and moral courage,” he said.
He described principals as the “heartbeat of schools” and “the compass that points communities toward progress.”
“The children who walk through your school gates each morning deserve the very best of your leadership—not just to survive in the world, but to thrive in it,” he added.
The Minister encouraged all participants to make the most of the conference by being open to learning and ready for change.
“This conference is a valuable opportunity designed to empower you with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration you need to lead with vision and confidence,” he said.
“I encourage you to attend every session with an open mind and a readiness to grow. The ideas and insights presented may challenge your current thinking—and that’s where change begins,” he urged.
He ended with a challenge: take what you learn and make it real in your schools.
“Take what resonates, adapt it to your school, and lead the way forward,” Hon. Leokana said.
The conference ends today with a packed program of discussions on school leadership, student well-being, academic performance, and the future of education in the Solomon Islands. For the principals attending, it’s not just a meeting—it’s a mission to build a better tomorrow for the nation’s children.
