Australia has handed over more than SBD$2 million worth of computers, ICT equipment and learning resources to Solomon Islands National University (SINU) at the university's Kukum Campus Library.
The Australian High Commission said the support strengthens digital learning, inclusive education and student support services, and builds on Australia's increased education support over 2026 for the government's free education policy vision.
The handover was attended by Minister for Education and Human Resources Development Hon Stephen Kumi, Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Jeff Roach, SINU Pro Vice-Chancellor Corporate Dr William Parairato and Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities Dr Patricia Rodie.
The support includes 50 laptops for a new computer laboratory for the Faculty of Education and Humanities, 1,000 Inclusive Education Manuals, and 200 refurbished laptops pre-loaded with curriculum resources for final-year teaching students to borrow during teaching practicum.
It also includes 72 desktop computers, computer tables, a television and ICT accessories for SINU libraries, along with five television sets to support the hosting of the Oceania Comparative and International Education Society (OCIES) Conference in November 2026.
The High Commission said the investment was made under the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade-SINU memorandum of understanding signed in 2024, which covers higher education, skills development, governance, inclusion and climate resilience.
Kumi thanked the government and people of Australia for their continued support to education in Solomon Islands. He said the digital tools and inclusive learning resources will strengthen the preparation of future teachers and help them create classrooms where every child has the opportunity to learn and succeed.
Roach said the investments build on Australia's long-standing partnership with SINU, and that students were already using the computers when he visited.
"Laptops and computers may be valuable, but the biggest value this equipment will bring is resourcing students' minds with creativity that will shape the future of Solomon Islands," Roach said.
SINU Acting Vice-Chancellor and Pro Vice-Chancellor Corporate Dr William Parairato said the university was receiving ICT equipment, accessories and inclusive education resources funded by the Australian government, and described it as a donation of opportunity rather than of hardware alone.
Parairato said access to information and communication technology is no longer a luxury but a basic part of modern education. He said the computers and accessories will help bridge the digital divide for students, allowing them to carry out research, work with others globally and build the technology skills employers look for.
The High Commission said the investment is expected to contribute to a more inclusive and digitally connected higher education sector, supporting students and educators with resources for learning, teaching and future employment.