The Honorable Minister Jimson Tanangada delivered a compelling address yesterday at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) seminar focused on “Developing Pathways to Security Studies.” The event, held at the PG 2, FEH Complex on the Panatina Campus, emphasized the critical importance of national security in fostering the prosperity and stability of the Solomon Islands.
In his opening remarks, the Minister of Police National Security & Correctional Services underscored that national security is the backbone of sovereignty, extending beyond mere border protection to encompass the rights and well-being of all citizens. He highlighted the necessity for a comprehensive understanding of national security in an increasingly unpredictable world, noting that emerging threats such as climate change, cyber risks, and geopolitical tensions require a proactive and resilient security framework.
The Minister articulated the unique position of the Solomon Islands within the Pacific region, where global issues intersect. He stressed the importance of differentiating between traditional military threats and non-traditional threats to ensure thorough risk assessments.
He also addressed the collaborative role of security agencies, emphasizing that maintaining national stability is a collective mission involving various institutions, including police, intelligence services, and governmental ministries. The Minister acknowledged past challenges in collaboration but expressed optimism for growth through enhanced communication and information sharing.
A significant part of his speech focused on the National Security Strategy (NSS), which was updated for 2024-2027 to better address both traditional and emerging threats. The new strategy aims to be more focused and actionable, reflecting current global security dynamics.
The Minister encouraged academic institutions like SINU to engage with the NSS as it provides a multidimensional framework integrating law enforcement, socio-economic development, environmental sustainability, and good governance. He outlined several key areas where students can contribute to national security discussions:
Regional Stability: Understanding geopolitical dynamics.
Historical Context: Learning from past civil unrest.
Policy Development: Insights into governance impacts.
International Relations: Analyzing foreign partnerships.
Community Engagement: Promoting safety and human rights.
Environmental Considerations: Addressing climate change challenges.
Research Opportunities: Exploring security policy effectiveness.
Cultural Understanding: Recognizing unique local dynamics.
Global Issues: Engaging with international security challenges.
In conclusion, the Honorable Minister emphasized that establishing a robust academic framework for security studies is essential for preparing future leaders to navigate complex security challenges.
He called for continued collaboration between academic institutions, security agencies, and government bodies to ensure a safe and prosperous future for all Solomon Islanders.
The Minister expressed gratitude to all participants for their commitment to this vital cause and looked forward to productive discussions that will contribute to national stability.
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–MPNSCS Press
