The Government for National Unity and Transformation, GNUT, has prioritised education as a central pillar of the 2024-2028 National Policy and Translation Document.
Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Mines Energy and Rural Electrification, Honourable Bradley Tovosia MP made the statement as guest of honour during a weekend fundraising drive towards the establishment of the John Coleridge Patteson University, JCPU site, Koku area, Central Guadalcanal.
The Anglican Church of Melanesia takes on the massive project, named after the first English Anglican bishop missionary to the South Sea Islands, a scholar and martyr. The University project is a collaboration with the national government and other stakeholders.
In his statement, the Acting Prime Minister commends the vision behind the John Coleridge Patteson University as it aligns with the government’s broader policy goals…. “the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT), has made education a central pillar of our 2024-2028 Policy and Translation Document. We recognise that inclusive and equitable education is the foundation for building a stronger, more resilient nation”, Acting Prime Minister Tovosia expounded.
He further stated, GNUT’s National Development Strategy prioritises the development of human capital. Education is a direct contribution to the population’s skills, knowledge, and values that are fundamental for the country’s future.
He accentuated, the creation of lifelong learning opportunities for the people of Solomon Islands is a matter of government priority. In this regard, fostering partnerships with institutions like the Anglican Church of Melanesia, a pioneer in the providence of education in the country’s history is a key partner in this collective development journey.
The Government is focused on improving teaching standards, curriculum development, and infrastructure throughout the nation.
The Acting Prime Minister acknowledge the Anglican Church of Melanesia for its part in laying the groundwork for the country’s education institutions that edify both the mind and the spirit. “The John Coleridge Patteson University is the latest expression of that commitment. This university will be more than an academic institution; it will be a place where students grow as individuals, grounded in Christian values and principles that will guide them throughout their lives”.
The relationship between government and church in the field of education is one of partnership and shared responsibility. While the government ensures that policies are in place to promote accessible and high-quality education, the Church plays an equally important role by nurturing the moral and spiritual growth of our people. The John Coleridge Patteson University will combine academic excellence with Christian discipline.
Acting Prime Minister Tovosia underscores, that together, the government and the Church can ensure that education remains a driving force for national unity and transformation- grounded in both knowledge and values that contribute to social cohesion and national progress.
With the University’s administration building construction now underway, ACOM is confident, there is no turning back for JCPU.
The project needs everyone’s support- donors, government and other stakeholders as it will deliver quality tertiary education and excel the advancement of inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for the entire country and region.
Once completed, JCPU will run four Colleges- Theology, Nursing and Public Health, Agribusiness, Senior Secondary and a Commercial zone.
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-SIG News Release
