The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and the Solomon Islands National Sports Council (NSC) have today signed a landmark Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that sets the foundation for a robust collaboration aimed at enhancing academic cooperation, sports development, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles across the Solomon Islands. This agreement signifies a significant step forward in integrating academic expertise with national sports initiatives, laying the groundwork for a mutually beneficial partnership that will impact various aspects of sports science, education, and community health.

The MOA outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration, focusing on the development of an Olympic Sport Research Centre, advancing sports science, and building a qualification pathway for education and training in sports management and governance. It also includes initiatives aimed at refining the national physical education curriculum, promoting participation among women, girls, and persons with disabilities, and fostering a culture of school sports in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD).

In addition to academic initiatives, the agreement covers areas such as research collaboration, student internships, international cooperation for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the management of key sports facilities. The NSC will assume full responsibility for the management of SINU’s sports facilities at the Panatina Campus, ensuring their optimal use for both educational and community activities.

Dr. Transform Aqorau, Vice Chancellor of SINU, emphasized the importance of this agreement in his remarks, stating: “This partnership between SINU and the Solomon Islands National Sports Council marks a new era of collaboration that will not only enhance the academic and professional development of our students but also contribute to the overall health and well-being of our nation. By combining our resources and expertise, we are setting the stage for a brighter future where sports, education, and community well-being are inextricably linked. This agreement is a testament to our commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and athletes who will carry the Solomon Islands to new heights on the global stage.”

The partnership will also focus on research initiatives aimed at auditing national sports facilities, monitoring participation levels, and evaluating the impact of physical activity on education, health, and social cohesion. These efforts will be supported by SINU’s research expertise, ensuring that data-driven strategies are implemented to maximize the benefits of sports and physical activity for all Solomon Islanders.

SINU and NSC will explore international collaborations as part of the agreement, particularly in preparation for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This will include cooperation with regional tertiary institutions to improve the capability and capacity of those involved in high-performance sports.

The Memorandum of Agreement represents a shared vision for the future of sports and education in the Solomon Islands, underscoring the critical role that both institutions will play in fostering a healthier, more active, and better-educated population.

-SINU Press Release