𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐔 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐇𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐜 𝐀𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐡𝐃 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐚 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐄𝐫𝐚 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲

𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞
𝟐𝟐-𝟎𝟖-𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

SINU Chancellor Sir (Dr) Nathan Kumamusa Kere and SINU Vice Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau raise Dr. Mary’s hands to celebrate a significant achievement for both Dr. Mary and SINU.

Eleven years after the Solomon Islands College of Higher Education (SICHE) transitioned to the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) in 2013, SINU has proudly achieved a significant milestone by awarding its first-ever PhD degree.
Dr. Mary Tahu Paia, from Western Province, becomes the first SINU graduand to earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science. This historic moment was celebrated with cheers at Maranatha Hall as Dr. Mary’s family sang and accompanied her to the stage to receive her doctorate.
In his speech at the 2024 graduation ceremony, SINU Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau expressed pride in this achievement, emphasizing its significance for both Dr. Mary and the university.
“Today is historic as we proudly confer our very first PhD degree,” Professor Aqorau stated. “This milestone is not just a personal triumph for the graduate, but a landmark in our university’s evolution. It is a powerful reminder that with determination and hard work, we can reach new heights. To our PhD graduand, your achievement is a shining example of what can be accomplished with dedication and a thirst for knowledge.”
The guest of honour, Governor General Sir David Tiva Kapu, along with SINU Chancellor Sir (Dr) Nathan K. Kere, were among those who extended their congratulations to SINU and Dr. Mary on this milestone achievement.
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