The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has announced the reappointment of Professor Transform Aqorau as Vice-Chancellor for a second five-year term, reaffirming its commitment to leadership continuity and institutional reform.
Professor Aqorau’s reappointment follows what the University described as a rigorous, transparent, and merit-based selection process overseen by a Council-appointed Selection Committee.
The process included an open international call for expressions of interest, comprehensive due diligence and reference checks, candidate shortlisting, and structured interviews aligned with the University’s long-term strategic objectives.
Candidates were also assessed on their vision for advancing SINU’s draft 2026 Strategic Plan.
The University Council formally approved the Committee’s recommendation at its meeting on 10 February 2026, appointing Professor Aqorau in accordance with Section 28 of the SINU Act (No. 9 of 2012).
Dr. Morgan Wairiu, Pro-Chancellor of SINU, congratulated Professor Aqorau on his reappointment, emphasizing the importance of sustained leadership as the University continues to strengthen academic quality, governance standards, research capacity, and its contribution to national development in the Solomon Islands.
Professor Aqorau has since signed his new contract and expressed appreciation to the Council, Senate, Senior Management Committee, staff, and the wider university community for their continued confidence in his leadership. He reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing governance frameworks, expanding academic offerings, and advancing strategic partnerships at both regional and international levels.
A qualified lawyer and academic leader, Professor Aqorau holds a PhD in Law from the University of Wollongong and an Honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) from the Australian National University. Over the course of his career, he has published extensively and contributed to international policy discussions, particularly in the areas of governance and Pacific regional development.
Before joining SINU, Professor Aqorau held senior regional leadership roles, including serving as Deputy Director of the Forum Fisheries Agency and as the founding Chief Executive Officer of the Parties to the Nauru Agreement—an influential body in Pacific fisheries management.
During his first term as Vice-Chancellor, he led significant governance reforms, strengthened Council performance, enhanced donor engagement, and fostered new international partnerships to support infrastructure development and academic programs.
His reappointment signals SINU’s ongoing focus on institutional stability, accountability, and expanding access to quality higher education in the Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific region.
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