The Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) today marked the successful completion of a month-long internship program for 14 final-year students from the Solomon Islands National University (SINU), reaffirming its commitment to capacity development through strategic partnerships.
The internship provided students with a valuable opportunity to bridge academic theory with practical experience, enabling them to develop professional skills, build confidence, and gain exposure to the real demands of the workplace. It also formed a critical component of their final-year assessments, allowing them to engage in real-time with both public and private sector systems.
SICCI, as the peak body representing the private sector, views capacity building as a central pillar in its mission to create a thriving and resilient Solomon Islands economy. By partnering with SINU, the country’s national tertiary institution, SICCI is helping to equip the next generation of leaders with the skills and experience needed to contribute meaningfully to national development.
During the internship, the students were directly involved in a collaborative research project led by SICCI in partnership with GeoPoll, a U.S.-based research institution, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This initiative aimed to strengthen agricultural data systems in Solomon Islands, enhance national capacity in monitoring Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators, and inform evidence-based policymaking in areas such as productivity, sustainability, and gender equality in agriculture.
This partnership reflects SICCI’s broader commitment to connecting education with industry, ensuring that future professionals are not only academically qualified but also practically equipped to meet national priorities. It also highlights the importance of collaboration between private sector institutions, development partners, and academic institutions in building human capital.
SICCI acknowledges the strong cooperation with SINU and values the ongoing relationship that has made this internship program possible. The Chamber remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen the country’s workforce and welcomes future opportunities to partner in building the capabilities of Solomon Islands’ young professionals.
SICCI would like to register it special acknowledgment to you all: Andrew Kukuti, Annie Bana, Arthur Okai, Daistie Maesiola, Jeff Waleiole, Lalita Muva, McQuine Kimala, Nathan Maku, Paul Okai Jnr, Primo Kwalagau, Renzol Hilmer Lote, Ruth Sigimanu, Selinda Auga and Susan Tafeta Wate.
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[SICCI Press Release]
