by Georgina Maka’a
The remote Micronesia community of Wagina in Choiseul Province hosted the vice-chancellor of Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Professor Transform Aqorau for the first time this week.
A SINU media statement said Aqorau was there on 22 October 2025 as guest of honour at the Wagina Community High School graduation ceremony.
At the event, he delivered an inspiring address titled “Education: A Transformative Agent for Our Students’ Stronger and Brighter Future.”
“Being a small or distant community does not mean having small dreams or small potential,” Aqorau told school staff, students and parents.
“Education is not only about getting jobs in the city, but also about bringing knowledge back to improve life in the village,” he added.
“When our young people learn new farming, business, or technology skills, they build a stronger and more self-reliant Wagina.”
Wagina is being populated by descendants of the Kiribati people who were resettled on the island between1950 and 1960 by the British Government.
In his address Aqorau reflected on the courage and heritage of the Wagina people, calling them “a living testament to resilience and vision.”
He also celebrated their achievements in seaweed farming, which contributes nearly 90% of the Solomon Islands’ seaweed exports and encouraged them to blend traditional wisdom with modern education to strengthen their livelihoods.
Aqorau also shared the inspiring journey of Dr Tammy Tabe, a proud daughter of Wagina who earned her PhD in Norway.
“Tammy’s story reminds us that no dream is too big,” the SINU vice chancellor said.
“If one of your own can rise to such heights, then so can you. Education, faith, and determination are the keys that will open doors to your future.”
Drawing from Scripture, Professor Aqorau reminded the community that faith and education go hand in hand.
“Education is one of God’s gifts, a tool He provides to help us fulfil the hope and future He promises,” he said, quoting Jeremiah 29:11.
“With God’s help, your family’s support, and your own determination, you can overcome obstacles and turn challenges into opportunities.”
He announced that SINU is expanding its Flexible and Distance Learning programs and exploring scholarship opportunities for students from Micronesian backgrounds, including Wagina.
“At SINU, we believe education must reach every island, every village, and every person who seeks to learn,” he said.
“We are bringing classrooms closer to you because education transforms lives and strengthens communities.”
Aqorau also highlighted SINU’s partnerships with rural communities through research and innovation, including projects in climate adaptation, sustainable seaweed farming, and marine resource management, all vital to the future of coastal livelihoods.
He concluded by encouraging students to “set their sails bravely across the sea of their future,” reminding them that education is the vessel that will carry them toward their dreams.
The Principal of Wagina Community High School, Chris Rabaua, described Aqorau’s visit as “a historic and humbling moment for our island and our students.”
And he expressed gratitude for SINU’s commitment to inclusive education.
In a symbolic gesture reflecting Wagina’s seafaring identity, Professor Aqorau travelled by out-board motor canoe from Noro to Wagina.
He was accompanied by Jonny Tasa, Learners Centre Support Coordinator at SINU’s Centre for Distance and Flexible Learning (CDFL).
You must be logged in to post a comment.