Twenty-four academic staff from Solomon Islands National University (SINU) have graduated from the inaugural Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Teaching and Learning, delivered through the Australian Government’s Australia Awards program.
Delivered by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in partnership with SINU, the short course marks a major step forward in strengthening teaching excellence and student-centred learning in Solomon Islands’ higher education sector.
The cohort represented a wide range of disciplines—from nursing and public health to agriculture, engineering, and tourism—bringing enhanced teaching practices to classrooms across SINU.
11 of the graduates are women, highlighting Australia’s ongoing commitment to empowering women in education.
Acting Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Andrew Schloeffel, congratulated the graduates on their achievement.
“This program reflects Australia’s enduring commitment to Solomon Islands’ human development,’ said Mr Schloeffel. “By investing in educators, we’re investing in the future leaders who will shape the nation’s progress.”
SINU’s Pro Vice Chancellor Corporate, Dr William Parairato, praised the graduates:
“Your achievement strengthens not only your professional capacity but also the quality of education across our university. We are deeply grateful to our partners—UTS and the Australian Government—for making this milestone possible.”
Course participants, including Assistant Lecturer Ms. Madeline Kili Solo, were full of positive feedback about the course, noting it had given them the confidence to integrate technology into their teaching practices. Australia Awards continues to deliver world-class education and professional development opportunities for Solomon Islanders—empowering individuals, strengthening institutions, and contributing to national development goals.
