BY CHRIS ALEX
THE Minister of Education and Human Resources, Hon. Tozen Leokana, addressed the handover ceremony of a new science laboratory at Mbokona Community High School, funded by Australia and New Zealand, highlighting its significant investment in student education.
Hon. Leokana emphasized the lab’s significance in enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in the Solomon Islands, addressing over 500 students, teachers, and dignitaries.
“This magnificent building, the School Science Lab, stands as a testament to hope and collaboration between our nations.
“This project is about transforming education and ensuring that all children receive the best learning possible, which is at the heart of my ministry,” Hon. Leokana said.
Minister Leokana expressed profound gratitude to the Australian and New Zealand governments for their continuous support under the current education sector support program, which has funded the construction of numerous school infrastructure projects across the country. He emphasized that such collaborative investments are driving positive progress and future advancement in the Solomon Islands’ education sector.
“The new science lab is not just a building; it is a place where students can conduct investigations and experiments and share their thoughts about science topics.
“Science education plays a crucial role in shaping future generations of thinkers, innovators, and problem solvers that our country needs,” Hon. Leokana said.
The Minister also outlined his ministry’s commitment to strengthening STEM education, noting that preparatory work is underway to integrate STEM more comprehensively into the school curriculum.
He emphasized that STEM education equips students with practical skills, fosters problem-solving and critical thinking, and prepares them for future careers in a technologically driven world.
“STEM education encourages collaboration, creativity, and adaptability—essential attributes for success in the modern workforce.
“We must support our science teachers with the professional development they need to effectively teach these subjects,” Hon. Leokana said.
During the ceremony, Australia’s Foreign Minister, Senator Penny Wong, officially opened the new science lab, part of Australia’s broader support for school infrastructure upgrades in the Solomon Islands. Minister Wong’s visit underscores the ongoing commitment of the Australian government to the development and education of the Solomon Islands.
Minister Leokana concluded his speech by urging the school community to take good care of the new facility.
“Look after it as if it were your own property. This is your property and make use of it to its fullest so that it can have the greatest impact on students’ learning of science,” he said.
The new science lab, built at a cost of approximately SBD 1.5 million, is a major milestone for Mbokona Community High School, marking the first time the school has had such a facility.
The lab is expected to significantly enhance the quality of science education and provide students with the hands-on experience necessary for a deeper understanding of scientific concepts.
