An exciting new series of construction ‘how-to’ videos has been launched on YouTube in a partnership between Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and Australia.

The ‘Waka Stret’ [Do it right] series features Mathias Nokali, a carpentry and joinery lecturer at SINU, delivering step-by-step advice on common construction tasks like how to construct door frames and install doors, how to build formwork for concrete paths, and how to set out a building.

Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Rod Hilton, congratulated everyone involved in the production of the high-quality educational videos, saying it was another step towards lifting the quality of construction in Solomon Islands.

“When we build things, we want them to work well and we want them to last a long time and Youtube is a powerful, well-used platform for engaging and educating people here in Solomon Islands,” Hilton said. 

“This series addresses some of the most common construction issues for the industry, in a really creative and engaging way and will help build local skills and create local jobs,” he added.

_{^{Seeing is believing – scenes from the ‘concrete formwork’ video with presenter Mathias Nokali make complex instructions easier to follow.}}

Presenter Mathias Nokali said the concept of Waka Stret in the Solomon Islands means that one must follow local building codes and standards. 

“This should be explained in a way that’s easy for everyone to understand,” Nokali said.

“These tutorials simplify complex topics, making them easier for people to understand.”

Emerico Ramo, Director of Beluu Construction, said the locally produced video series would be a valuable resource for Solomon Islands.

“I really liked the video format,” Ramo said. 

“Previously, I had a difficult time following YouTube video, but this time, having local content made a big difference.”

^{_{Scenes from the ‘building setting out’ video filmed on location at SINU with the support of carpentry and joinery students.}}

“It felt more relevant and easier to follow, and it made a big difference that the presenter spoke in Pijin.” 

Vetina Tinaubeka, Project Manager, DDC Pacific, said the videos would help a lot of people feel more confident in managing small construction projects for their homes.

The three videos are between 5 to 12 minutes long and are free to download from the YouTube/Waka Stret page.

Another three videos are in production and will be released in the coming months.