Minister of Education Hon. Leokana handed over the keys to the Education Providers recipients.
Education providers took delivery of new vehicles to strengthen education services
Education providers (EPs) from Isabel, Renbel, and Honiara City Council took delivery of three new Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles on Wednesday, March 11th, 2026, to enhance EPs’ ability to access schools, supervise educational activities, and ensure effective school management.
The vehicles were handed over by the Minister of Education of Hon. Tozen Leokana, Australia Deputy High Commissioner Andrew Schloeffel, and New Zealand High Commissioner His Excellency Jonathan Cure Andrew, and received by Isabel, Principal Education Officer William Leguvaka, Rennell and Bellona Chief Education Officer Albert Kaipua, and HCC Chief Education Officer Ellison Mane.
The handover ceremony took place at the MEHRD car park and was attended by officials from DFAT, MFAT, Stronger Education Together, and MEHRD staff.
Speaking during the event, the Minister of Education, Hon. Leokana, said the vehicles will assist the EPs in supporting schools, visiting schools, monitoring, and ensuring management is carried out effectively.
“These vehicles will greatly assist the education providers to provide reliable transport and deliver essential services more effectively,” Hon. Leokana said.
Hon. Leokana acknowledges the Australian and New Zealand governments for the generous support that reflects a meaningful contribution and recognizes that reliable transport is essential for the operation, delivery of services, and administration of education across the country.
Australia Deputy High Commissioner His Excellency Schloeffel and New Zealand High Commissioner His Excellency Cure acknowledged that the handover of the vehicle is a symbol of shared commitment to strengthening education for ensuring EPs’ commitment to their schools, teachers, and their students, and strengthening education delivery in the provinces.
The vehicles were purchased under the Education Sector Support Program (ESSP), a jointly funded program by the governments of Australia and New Zealand with the Solomon Islands government through MEHRD.
Australia Deputy High Commissioner His Excellency Andrew and New Zealand High Commissioner His Excellency Jonathan handed over the keys to Minister Hon. Leokana.
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