Twenty-five academic staff of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) have commenced a Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Teaching and Learning at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in Australia.
The program is supported under the Australia Awards program, in partnership with SINU.
The postgraduate qualification for SINU teaching staff will build essential expertise and knowledge about how students learn as well as collaborative teaching models, curriculum design, delivery, and evaluation and the integration of digital learning.
Australian acting High Commissioner, Andrew Schloeffel, said the course will strengthen SINU’s capacity to provide high quality teacher training tertiary education to meet the future needs of the Solomon Islands school children, in line with the aims of the Solomon Islands Tertiary Education and Skills Authority (SITESA).
“Australia is committed to deepening its already strong relationship with SINU and supporting the University’s aspiration to develop key skills in Solomon Islands’ future workforce and build the prosperity of the nation,” acting High Commissioner Schloeffel said.
Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Associate Professor Eric Katovai, expressed his gratitude to the government and people of Australia for funding this training through the Australian Awards.
“This training comes at a crucial time as the university undertakes a comprehensive review of its programs in its mission to achieve both local and international recognition,” Associate Professor Katovai said.
“While SINU has a pool of highly qualified staff in their respective fields of expertise, many lack formal training in tertiary teaching, learning, and curriculum development.”
“I am confident that staff who benefit from this support will significantly enhance their curriculum preparation and delivery, contributing to improved teaching standards at SINU.”
The cohort will attend training at the UTS from 24 November – 6 December 2024, where they will also build networks with Australian academic staff and learn about Australia.
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