The Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) paid courtesy calls to the Minister of Home Affairs Hon. Chris Laore and the Minister of Education Hon. John Dean Kuku on Friday.
The purpose of the visit was to update both Government Ministers of the important role their respective Ministries plays in ensuring that the country takes full advantage of the Australian support program under the banner “Get Into Rugby (GIR) Plus."
The SIRUF delegation, led by President, George Tema, stated during their visits that GIR Plus looks at using rugby as platform to prevent violence against women and girls and promote gender equality. He says the role both Ministries play is crucial in ensuring its success.
Both Ministers congratulated SIRUF for being selected as a recipient of GIR Plus and pledged their support to ensure that the program is a success.
SIRUF is also encouraged to continue to strengthen its governance and financial mechanisms when implementing GIR Plus as it has strong bearing on the sustainability of the program.
The Minister for Education is encouraging schools and their education authorities to work closely with SIRUF GIR plus program as a “tool to develop and advocate good sports values and skills by focusing on women developments and related issues for advocacy.”
Mr Tema thanked both Ministers for their time and commitment to support GIR Plus as a partner.