A total of 20 students from Solomon Islands have graduated from the University of Goroka (UOG) yesterday after completing their Bachelors studies in School Management, Science, Applied Science and Agriculture.

High level delegation from UOG led by the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Dean of the university and administration staff travelled all the way from Papua New Guinea to witness the graduation, which was held at the Pacific Casino, in Honiara.

Representative from Papua New Guinea High Commission to Solomon Islands, the Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources joined parents in celebrating the university’s and the students’ achievement in Solomon Islands.

This is the third graduation University of Goroka has hosted in the country since an agreement was sealed between the University and Solomon Islands government through the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Guest of Honour, the Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, Mr James Bosamata, acknowledged and commended the services rendered by the University for Solomon Islands teachers.

He told those present that UOG has continued to drive one of the government’s aspirations and that is to produce well-trained teachers in both primary and secondary schools.

Mr Bosamata adds that University has continued utilising its resources to keep the Distance Learning programme running in Solomon Islands.

“I commend and acknowledge the University of Goroka for providing this importance service for our teachers.

“This establishment is a relief to my ministry and my ministry is looking forward to work closely with the university to further strengthen our partnership,” he said.

Mr Bosamata said the Ministry of Education and Human Resources development values the partnership as it will continue to enhance teachers’ profession in Solomon Islands.

He said the government of Solomon Islands fully supports the partnership.

On the same note, Mr Bosamata congratulates the graduating students for their great achievement.

Chancellor of the University Professor Joseph Sukwianomb said the event marks another historical achievement for the University of Goroka and its establishment here in Solomon Islands.

He said UOG is committed to assisting Solomon Islands with human resource development through its programmes in the country.

Prof Sukwianomb said his delegation has held discussions with the University of the South Pacific Solomon Islands campus and Solomon Islands National University on possibilities the three institutions can complement each other to deliver better opportunity and access to higher education.

He said discussions held were positive and that University of Goroka along with SINU and USP Solomon Islands Campus are looking forward to explore strategies to strengthen the partnership.

Prof Sukwianomb said the University’s long term plan is to establish a campus here in the country to give better access to Solomon Islanders who seeks higher qualifications.

“This is the biggest delegation the University ever sent to countries outside of Papua New Guinea.

“We made this decision as Solomon Islands is the hub of UOG’s outreach programme in the Pacific region,” he said.

Prof Sukwianomb said University of Goroka will be celebrating its 20 years anniversary later this year.

He said University of Goroka has enormous experience in enhancing Teacher’s capabilities and that the University is still focusing on its expertise through the Distance Flexible Learning here in Solomon Islands.

Prof Sukwianomb said the University’s concern is to develop more professional teachers to improve the quality of education learning within the Pacific region.

He congratulate the graduating students for their achievements.