PNG High Commissioner, Soaki accompanies Minister of Education and Human Resource Development on joint delegation visit to Papua New Guinea.

Minister Leokana and delegation after meeting with PNG Medical Board

The High Commissioner of Solomon Islands to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency, William Soaki once again accompanied important government delegations from the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) on a successful visit to Papua New Guinea from 7-11 October 2024.

The delegation was led by Minister of Education and Human Resource Development, Hon. Tozen Leokana.

The purpose of the visit was to enhance cooperation and exchange of expertise in higher education and human resource development. Discussions focused on increasing training opportunities for Solomon Islanders in PNG institutions, strengthening academic collaborations, and supporting the development of medical professionals and post graduate training.

A key outcome of the visit is the forthcoming signing of a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Higher Education & Human Resource Development Cooperation between both countries.

The MOU will pave the way for enhanced cooperation in tertiary education and the provision of PNG funded scholarships for Solomon Islands students to study at PNG tertiary institutions.

During the visit, the delegation engaged with various stakeholders and training providers, including the PNG Medical Board, the Dean and Executive of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences, and the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST). Additionally, consultations were also held with Solomon Islands tertiary students in Port Moresby.

The visit marks a significant step in strengthening the ties between the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea in education and healthcare, with a mutual commitment to building capacity and collaboration.

Currently 13 students are under SIG scholarships studying at UPNG Waigani campus, UPNG School of Medicine & Health Science and the Pacific Adventist University.

The delegation included Constance Nasi, Chief Executive of SITESA; Hudson Kupenga, Scholarship Officer/SITESA; Doreen Alfred, Director/SITESA; Sam Baega, Chief Accreditation Officer/SITESA; Dr. Trina Sale, Head of Emergency, National Referral Hospital (NRH); Dr. Emire Meone, Clinical Consultant/NRH; and Dr. Janella Solomon, Medical Superintendent. The Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, H.E William Soaki, accompanied Minister Leokana and delegation on their official engagements.

—MFAET PRESS RELEASE.