SOLOMON Islands National University (SINU) says it has laid charges against five of its senior staff who were suspended two weeks ago over allegations of fraud.
Vice Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau said all five are facing “Gross Misconduct” charges.
Those charged are:
- Pro Vice Chancellor (Academic) – Dr Jack Maebuta
- Dean of Nursing – Verzilyn Isom
- Senior Marketing & Promotion Manager – Estee Lonamei
- Finance Logistics/Revenue Enforcement Officer – Glenn Huntly
- Acting Director of Properties and Facilities – Frank Liu
“The charges brought against the suspended staff were a demonstration of SINU management’s unwavering commitment to promoting good governance, ensuring financial prudence, and upholding the highest standards of integrity,” Aqorau said in a statement issued last night.
He said the investigation, which SINU management initiated unearthed evidence pointing towards the involvement of the suspended staff members in fraudulent activities targeting the university’s resources.
“The alleged misconduct not only violated the trust bestowed upon them but also undermined the University’s mission to provide quality education and research opportunities to its students, and the trust that the Government and parents placed on the funds they contributed to the University,” Aqorau pointed out.
He added SINU, guided by its strong ethical framework, has taken swift and firm action to address this breach of trust.
“In line with due process and the principles of natural justice, the suspended staff members have been formally charged with gross misconduct.
“Their alleged actions have serious implications, not only for the University but also for the wider academic community and the stakeholders it serves.
“The University recognises the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability in all its operations.
“By bringing these charges, the University reiterates its unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and ensuring financial prudence.
“Such actions reinforce the trust placed in the institution by its students, faculty, staff, and the wider community.”
Aqorau also said the University’s management has cooperated fully with relevant authorities and will continue to do so throughout the legal process.
He stated SINU remains determined to uncover the full extent of any misconduct and restore trust and reinforce its commitment to good governance.
“This investigation is not going to stop with the five staff who have been charged,” Aqorau promised.
“SINU is firmly committed to supporting the success of its students and staff.
“In light of these developments, the University is implementing additional measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
“These measures include enhanced internal controls, and increased oversight.
“The University would like to assure its stakeholders that this incident does not define its commitment to excellence in education, research, and community engagement.
“SINU remains focused on its core mission of providing a conducive learning environment, fostering innovation, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge.”
Aqorau initiated this investigation shortly after his appointment as SINU’s vice chancellor in November 2022.
This, he said, was prompted by reports of irregularities and financial discrepancies related to printing services provided by Wakaman Inc, a company that does not own a printing machine.
Initial findings revealed more than $3.4 million of SINU funds were expended in this alleged fraudulent printing procurement.