In a first of its kind, stakeholders celebrated the recent passage of the Education Act 2023 today with a parade and an official event at the Pacific Crown Hotel in Honiara.
Led by the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD), the new bill has been dubbed “historic”, and was designed to address gaps within the education system.
Minister Lanelle Tanangada, who pushed the bill through parliament, was elated.
“This new bill embraces a new vision and direction to advance the education sector, build capacity and empower our future leaders,” Tanangada said.
She said over the years, the country was developing different needs and wants for our students.
“It became clear that our old legislation missed some
critical aspects, for example Early Childhood Education, child protection, equity and inclusiveness.
“Not many of us will ever be in a position to say we were part of something
as significant as a brand-new piece of such significant legislation.
“This is a once in a lifetime moment for us.
“Please take pride in this moment in our country’s education history.”
Tanangada said the Education Act 2023 is a significant achievement by MEHRD after a 10-year period of reviews and extensive consultations.
She called on stakeholders to collaborate with the ministry to implement the Education Legislative Framework and to reform the education system in order to improve access to quality education for all Solomon Islands children and advance standards for teachers and school management.
The success of coming up with this new bill was backed by Australia and New Zealand through the Education Sector Support Program.
Officials who celebrated the Education Act 2023 today| Credits: In-depth Solomons
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Rod Hilton said they are committed to working together to improve access to quality education for all Solomon Islands children and advance standards for teachers and school management through the new legislation framework.
Permanent Secretary Dr Franco Rodie said the achievement came as a result of contributions from many individuals.
With the passage of the bill, Rodie said the challenge now is to ensure quality education for students.
“One one of the biggest takeaways from the achievement is the importance of intentional collaboration,” Rodie stated.
“Armed with the new Education Act, we are rightly shifting our ambitions for the next 10 years from not only emphasizing education for all, but learning for all,” he added.