The third Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants (ISIA) Annual Congress officially opened in Honiara today under the theme ‘Beyond Qualifications: Building a Workforce that Thinks, Leads, and Creates.’
The two-day conference brings together financial practitioners, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss public financial management, digital innovation, governance, and sustainability.
A statement from ISIA said the opening of the conference was done by David Dennis, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Treasury (MoFT), and Andrew Schloeffel, Deputy Australian High Commissioner, who highlighted the importance of institutional resilience and professional capability.
In his keynote address, ISIA President Johnson Lobo emphasized that accountants must serve as custodians of public trust.
“Behind every successful development project, every budget, and every major investment is sound financial management,” Mr. Lobo said.
“Whether we serve in Government, the private sector, or private practice, we have a duty that goes beyond our immediate employers: we have a responsibility to Solomon Islands.”
Addressing the rise of technology and artificial intelligence, Mr. Lobo noted that automated tools cannot replace ethical judgment.
“Technology may change how we work, but it must never change what we stand for,” he stressed.
MoFT Permanent Secretary Mr. Dennis outlined how government reforms rely on sound financial oversight and workforce development.
“None of these four pillars can stand without rigorous transparent financial management,” Mr. Dennis said, noting the necessity for critical thinking and leadership in human capital development.
Deputy High Commissioner Mr. Schloeffel reaffirmed Australia’s commitment as the platinum sponsor for the third consecutive year.
“Our support reflects the strength of our partnership with the Solomon Islands Government and ISIA, and our shared commitment to a capable, ethical, and forward-looking accounting profession,” Mr. Schloeffel stated.
