The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) signed a Grant Arrangement on Wednesday 23 July that will support the refurbishment of the University’s Department of Fisheries Complex at the Ranadi Campus, marking another significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between the Republic of Korea and the Solomon Islands.
The Grant Arrangement provides funding of up to USD 54,548 for the renovation of the Department of Fisheries Building under the Project for the Support for the Establishment and Capacity Building of Fisheries Studies in Solomon Islands. The project aims to strengthen the institutional infrastructure supporting fisheries education and capacity development at SINU.
The agreement was signed at SINU by Professor Transform Aqorau, Vice-Chancellor of Solomon Islands National University, and Mr. Han Kyul Sam Cho, Country Director of KOICA Fiji Office.
The Department of Fisheries Complex was originally funded through the generous support of KOICA and constructed by Hatanga Limited. The new grant demonstrates KOICA’s continued commitment to ensuring that the facility remains modern, functional and capable of supporting high-quality teaching, learning and research for the next generation of fisheries professionals.
Under the agreement, SINU will manage the design, procurement, tendering, construction supervision and completion of the refurbishment works, while KOICA will provide funding and technical support throughout the implementation of the project. The renovated complex will continue to be owned and maintained by SINU following completion of the works.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau welcomed the signing of the agreement, describing it as another important chapter in the enduring relationship between Korea and the Solomon Islands.
“Today’s signing reflects the deep friendship and enduring partnership between the Republic of Korea and Solomon Islands. Through KOICA, the Government and people of Korea have consistently invested in the development of our nation and, in particular, in strengthening higher education and human resource development.”
Professor Aqorau added that the refurbishment would significantly enhance the learning environment for students and staff.
“The Department of Fisheries Complex has served our students well since it was originally funded by KOICA and built by Hatanga Limited. We are delighted that KOICA has once again demonstrated its confidence in SINU by supporting the refurbishment of this important facility. When completed, our students will enjoy a modern, refreshed and attractive learning environment that will better support practical teaching, research and innovation in fisheries.”
He also emphasised the strategic importance of fisheries to the Solomon Islands.
“Fisheries is one of the pillars of the Solomon Islands economy and one of our nation’s greatest natural assets. As the national university, SINU has a responsibility to educate and prepare future leaders, scientists, managers and practitioners who will ensure the sustainable management of these valuable marine resources. This investment strengthens our capacity to fulfil that responsibility.”
Professor Aqorau expressed his appreciation to KOICA and the Government of the Republic of Korea for their continued partnership with SINU.
“On behalf of the Council, management, staff and students of Solomon Islands National University, I sincerely thank KOICA and the people of the Republic of Korea for their unwavering support. We greatly value this partnership and look forward to expanding our collaboration in education, research, innovation and capacity building for many years to come.”
The refurbishment project is expected to transform the Department of Fisheries Complex into a revitalised teaching and learning space that will benefit current students, future generations of learners, academic staff and the wider fisheries sector in Solomon Islands.
Source: SINU Press Release
