Group photo of Minister for Health, Radiographers, Clinicians and Guests who attended the event
National Referral Hospital Celebrates World Radiography Day
Solomon Islands Society of Radiographers (SISR), commemorated World Radiography Day (WRD) with a special event held at the Honiara Hotel on Saturday, 8 November 2025. The celebration was to mark the historic discovery of X-rays by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895.This global event highlights the vital role of radiographic imaging and radiation therapy in modern healthcare, particularly in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and the commitment to minimizing radiation exposure for enhanced patient safety and quality care. For the SISR, this year’s celebration was especially significant as it marked the first official commemoration of WRD since the establishment of the Medical Imaging Unit at NRH.
The theme for this year’s celebration “Empowering Healthcare through Imaging Excellence.”
The event was graced by the Minister for Health and Medical Services, Hon. Dr. Paul Popora Bosawai, who delivered the keynote address. In his speech, the Minister emphasized the importance of the event’s theme.
“This year’s theme truly captures the heart of what you do. Every image you capture, every scan you interpret, and every patient you assist represents not just technology in motion, but compassion, precision, and commitment to saving lives. Radiography and medical imaging are the very core of modern healthcare, assisting doctors and health professionals in identifying illness, guiding treatment, and monitoring recovery. Without imaging, much of medicine today would be operating in the dark.”
Dr. Bosawai further acknowledged the vital role of radiographers and radiologists.
“The Government, through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, recognises that radiographers and radiologists are not just technicians or image-takers, you are vital partners in patient care. You stand at the intersection of science and humanity, using your knowledge and skill to bring clarity, comfort, and hope to patients and families in moments of uncertainty.”
In closing, the Minister expressed his gratitude.
“Thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your unwavering commitment to care. Despite challenges such as limited budgets, deteriorating infrastructure, and staff shortages, you continue to serve with dedication. May this celebration renew your passion, deepen your sense of purpose, and remind you how valued you are in our nation’s journey toward ‘A Healthy Future for All’, as outlined in our National Health Strategic Plan 2022–2031.”
Meanwhile, Associate Professor Arish Naresh, Clinical Governance Advisor at NRH delivering the guest remarks in the event. He highlighted the importance of clinical governance in strengthening healthcare systems.
“Clinical governance is essential for any healthcare provider, including here in the Solomon Islands. From my own experience in dental practice, I cannot imagine how we would function without radiography. A good OPG, a well-taken CBCT, and a crisp bitewing can change everything—clarifying anatomy, revealing pathology, and guiding treatment with the precision our patients deserve.”
He also spoke about the ongoing Clinical Governance Project at NRH, supported by the Solomon Islands Australia Health Partnership.
“It is early, but it is real, and it is moving. Our collective aim is to roll this out to the provinces, ensuring that quality and safety are not privileges of one facility but promises kept across the whole health system. We are eager to work closely with all departments, including the SISR, to co-design clinical governance indicators that reflect your realities, strengths, and constraints.”
“Together, we can anchor our work in the Quintuple Aim of Healthcare:
- Better care and outcomes for patients
- Improved population health
- Wise use of resources and reduced waste
- Clinician and staff well-being
- Equity for every person, in every province
Thank you for empowering healthcare through imaging excellence. Our patients are safer, our decisions are smarter, and our outcomes are better because of you.”
The event concluded with the presentation of Certificates of Recognition to NRH imaging staff and provincial participants, acknowledging their dedication to delivering timely and quality imaging service.
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In photo are the guests who participated at the event. From left: Dr. Nemia Bainivalu (Deputy Secretary Healthcare) A/Prof. Arish Naresh (Clinical Governance Advisor at NRH) and Dr, Paul Popora Bosawai (Minister for Health and Medical Services)