Lata, Temotu Province – Monday, 19 May 2025
The Civic Education Unit (PCEU) of the Parliamentary Public Engagement and Communication Department has officially launched a three-day Teacher Training Workshop for educators in Temotu Province. The training is currently taking place at Luelta Resort in Lata and brings together teachers from selected schools across the province.
This capacity-building initiative aims to enhance educators’ understanding—particularly Social Science teachers—of the structure and functions of the National Parliament, the principle of separation of powers, and the role of parliamentary committees. At the heart of this training is the Parliamentary Resource Book, a key educational tool designed to support civic education in classrooms.
Mr. Allen Steward, Chief Education Officer of the Temotu Province Education Authority, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a privilege to have such training brought to his teachers.
“I would like to frame this training under the theme: ‘Empowering Educators for a Stronger Civic Education,’” Mr. Steward said.
He highlighted that the workshop would help bridge gaps in the current curriculum, enhance parliamentary knowledge, and broaden the civic awareness of students.
“Make this training a great success so that our children understand how Parliament works. This is an investment in the future. Share what you’ve learned here with fellow teachers and your students,” he encouraged participants.
Mr. Alex Seama, Acting Director of the Parliamentary Civic Education Unit, expressed his sincere appreciation to all participants, especially those who traveled from remote schools within Temotu Province. He also extended his gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for their continuous support.
Mr. Seama reiterated the importance of knowledge-sharing, noting that approximately 70–75% of Solomon Islanders still lack a clear understanding of Parliament’s role and functions. He highlighted that the resource books were specifically developed for young people—particularly secondary school students—as supplementary reading materials aligned with the existing curriculum.
Through interactive presentations, discussions, and practical activities, the workshop equips educators with both content knowledge and pedagogical tools to effectively deliver civic education in their schools.
A Milestone for Civic Education in Solomon Islands
This workshop marks a significant step in the Parliament’s ongoing efforts to promote civic awareness through education. The initiative began in 2010, when the Parliament of Solomon Islands started developing civic education resources for secondary schools. By 2021, the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) formally adopted these materials into the national curriculum.
As a result, three comprehensive resource booklets—targeted at both teachers and students—have been published and distributed to all secondary schools nationwide.
The National Parliament, through the Office of the Speaker, extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Solomon Islands Government, particularly the Curriculum Development Division (CDD) of MEHRD, for their dedication to publishing and distributing these valuable educational tools.
Special thanks are also extended to the Australian Government, through the Twinning Partnership with the New South Wales Parliament, whose education team provided early and invaluable feedback on the resource content.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), through its Strengthening Legislatures’ Capacity in Pacific Island Countries Project, has played a crucial role in supporting the resource book launch and in facilitating the delivery of this fourth provincial training session. Their contribution will benefit thousands of students across the country.
A National Initiative
Since 2021, similar workshops have been successfully held for teachers in Honiara, Guadalcanal, Central, and Malaita provinces. Temotu now becomes the fifth province to host this essential civic education training.
By empowering teachers with the tools and knowledge to teach about Parliament, the National Parliament of Solomon Islands continues to invest in a more informed, engaged, and democratically active citizenry. These workshops are building a foundation for future generations to better understand and participate in the democratic process.
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Thoughts? Iumi stori
[NPSI]
