Minister of Education and Human Resource Development, Hon. Stephen Kumi was guest of honor at the 2026 Graduation Ceremony of the state owned Waimapuru NSS in MakiraUlawa Province.
Thursday 22 October, Honiara – Minister of Education and Human Resource Development, Hon. Stephen Kumi reiterates that as recognized under our Education Act 2023, education is a shared responsibility.
“Students and families have important roles to play, alongside teachers, school leaders, Education Providers and the Government. Each has a responsibility to contribute to an education system that gives every learner the opportunity to learn, grow and succeed,” he said.
The Minister of Education highlighted this when delivering his keynote address at the 2026 graduation ceremony of state-owned Waimapuru National Secondary School in Makira/Ulawa Province.
Minister of Education and Human Resource Development, Hon. Stephen Kumi (right), MEHRD’s Deputy Secretary Education Services, Christopher Sakiri (centre) and Member of Parliament for West Makira, Hon Derrick Manuari recei
VIP Guests and staff at the 2026 Graduation Ceremony of Waimapuru National Secondary School.
“When we each fulfil our responsibilities, we strengthen not only individual futures but also the future of our communities and the Solomon Islands as a nation.
“Students cannot succeed through their efforts alone. They need committed teachers, effective school leadership, safe and suitable facilities, supportive families and an education system that responds to their needs.
“Government, MEHRD as Waimapuru NSS’s education provider, and the wider community must each fulfil their responsibilities to support student learning and achievement,” he added.
The theme for the school’s graduation this year ‘My Education, My Future, My Responsibility’ carries a powerful and deeply personal message and one that reminds us that education is a shared responsibility.
The Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD), as Education Provider, continues to provide oversight and coordinate support for schools in Solomon Islands including Waimapuru NSS, as one of two state-owned schools in the country.
Hon. Kumi called on parents and communities to have courage and not neglect their responsibilities as first educators in the home.
“This will protect our children and young people from harm in the future; and the Government is working hard to provide the policies, resources and conditions required for quality education, especially under its Flagship Free Education Programme,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted that the Makira/Ulawa and Temotu Provincial Governments also have a particular role in working with MEHRD and Waimapuru’s school leadership to ensure access to quality education service delivery, through agreed provincial quotas.
Minister of Education and Human Resource Development, Hon. Stephen Kumi presenting certificates to graduating students.
“This should be considered transparently and fairly in the enrolment process, alongside the school’s capacity, applicable admission requirements and the need to provide equitable access for eligible students.
“This partnership can help ensure that Waimapuru continues to serve students from both provinces while maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hon.Kumi on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government and MEHRD, congratulate graduands and thank the teachers, school leadership, parents, guardians, the Makira-Ulawa and Temotu Provincial Governments, and the wider community for their contributions.
“To our graduands, carry the knowledge, skills and values you have gained at Waimapuru into the next stage of your lives. Believe in your potential, make responsible choices, continue learning and contribute positively to Solomon Islands,” he said.
The Minister reaffirmed MEHRD’s commitment for Waimapuru NSS, to strengthen the school’s learning environment and improve education outcomes.
