Minister for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) Ricky Fuo’o has announced the Government for National Unity and Transformations’ (GNUT) immediate support towards the Solomon Islands Red Cross Society (SIRCS)-managed Special Development Centre (SDC) School.
As guest of honor during the school’s closing ceremony today, Hon. Fuo’o delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing the importance of inclusion, support, and community partnership.
Key Announcements by Minister:
– SDC’s School Bus Repair and Procurement of a Brand-New Bus: The MID Mechanical unit has successfully repaired their current school bus, which had been out of service for several months. The ministry will have allocated funds to purchase a brand-new school bus next year, ensuring it is safe and custom-built for the students with special needs.
– Infrastructure Upgrades: The MID Architect and Building Management Division has conducted a comprehensive assessment of the school’s infrastructure. Tenders for a drainage system designed to prevent flooding will be released shortly. Further upgrades to the school facilities will follow through upcoming assessments. Minister Fuo’o extends the government’s sincere thanks to the Australian Government and the Australian High Commission in Honiara for their swift response to support these improvement works, demonstrating true partnership and friendship with Solomon Islands.
– Access to Clean Water: Minister Fuo’o, through discussions with Solomon Sheet Steel management, has resulted in a commitment to drill a borehole within the school compound, providing a reliable supply of clean, running water, thus improving hygiene and health conditions for students and staff.
“I promise—this is just the beginning. We will continue to support you. We will continue to improve your school.
“Together, we will make sure that every child in the Solomon Islands can learn, grow, and shine,” the MID minister said, adding that students with special needs have potential and can achieve great things.
He called for a shift in societal attitudes to recognize abilities over disabilities and to foster a culture of support, respect, and opportunity.
“We must look beyond disabilities and see abilities. We must see potential, not problems. We must see the person, not just the challenge—to ensure that no one is left behind.”
The Central Kwara’ae parliament member further highlighted the role of teachers, parents, and guardians as heroes who nurture and support the growth of every child.
School Principal Jiope Iputu, in his remarks, highlighted the significant challenges in providing quality education for children with special needs.
“Currently, we lack a formal curriculum for children with special needs, relying only on generic guidelines.
“Despite policies advocating for inclusive education, many students are still referred back to us from mainstream schools, which face their own challenges in supporting children with special needs,” Mr. Iputu remarked.
He called on the government to increase scholarship intake for teachers in special needs education.
“Our facilities, over 48 years old, are deteriorating due to weathering and flooding, affecting both infrastructure and student learning.
“We call on parents, communities, and the government to support our efforts—by participating in school activities, providing basic needs, and fostering a collaborative approach to education.”
The principal, who has served at the school for the past 11 years, acknowledged Minister Fuo’o for accepting their invitation, which also marks the first time for a parliament representative to join them for a simple year-end ceremony.
Student representative April Manegaua, in her remarks through a sign language interpreter, posed a serious question: “What is the state of inclusive education today?”
She called on responsible authorities to hear their cries for improved access to education, just like other children, to excel in building future career pathways.
Also speaking during the closing ceremony, acting Secretary General of the SIRCS Joanne Zoleveke shared the challenges this humanitarian organization has faced in the last two years and their phase of recovery.
She revealed that they are working to cement a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the education and lands division to secure land title for the schools’ current location at Rifle Range and other formalities.
Total enrolment for this year stands at 89 students with different impairments, and today’s event also marks the graduation of three senior students who will transition to other training centers.
This school gained public attention when a student, Francis Dina, shared their challenges during the recent International Children’s Day celebration in Honiara. Thanks to the ongoing advocacy of online media groups, especially Tavuli News, who captured this moment that went viral, sparking debate and renewed calls for intervention to support these special needs community.
Learning modules provided at the school include Basic Literacy and Numeracy, Basic Life Skills and Livelihood Program, Children’s Interest Program, Basic Physiotherapy and Education Program, and Braille Class for the Visually Impaired.
Today’s closing ceremony attended by parents, board members, and supporting agencies, concludes with entertainment by the students and lunch.
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