𝑺𝑰𝑵𝑼 𝒍𝒂𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝑫𝑭𝑳 𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒐

25-03-2024
𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆

On Thursday, March 21, 2024, Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Centre for Distance and Flexible Learning (DFL) successfully launched a new center at the Snyder Rini (SR) Academy in the Marovo Lagoon, Western Province.”

The launching of the DFL centre at the SR Academy came about following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SINU and Snyder Rini Education Authority (SREA) in June 2023.

Speaking during the launching on Friday, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities (FEH) Dr. Patricia Rodie said the launching of the SINU DFL at SR Academy is a significant milestone in the pursuit of accessible and quality education presenting opportunities for the grassroots of Marovo.

Dr. Rodie said the partnership between SINU and SR Academy is a testament to their shared vision of empowering communities through education.

“The establishment of the DFL Centre here at the SR Academy is a pioneering step towards dismantling the barriers of distance and time that have historically impeded access to higher education in remote areas.”

“By leveraging technology and innovative teaching methodologies, we aim to provide flexible, student-centered learning experiences that cater to the diverse needs of our learners, irrespective of their geographical location.”

“Our collaboration with the Snyder Rini Education Authority is a cornerstone in our mission to foster a culture of lifelong learning.”

“This initiative aligns with SINU’s strategic goals of inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that quality education is not a privilege confined to urban centres but a right available to all individuals in the Solomon Islands, including the far-reaching communities in Marovo.”

“As we embark on this journey together, we are not just opening doors to academic pursuits; we are nurturing the seeds of community development, economic growth, and social transformation.”

“Through the DFL Centre, learners in Marovo and surrounding areas will have the opportunity to access a wide range of academic and vocational programs, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to the sustainable development of their communities and the nation at large.”

“Education is the cornerstone of progress and development in any society.”

“It empowers individuals, enhances their skills, and unlocks their true potential.”

“However, the path to education is not always accessible, particularly in remote areas such as Marovo.”

“It is our collective responsibility to bridge this gap and ensure that every individual, regardless of their background or geographical location, has equal access to quality education.”

According to Dr. Rodie, through the establishment of the DFL Centre here in Marovo, SINU and the Snyder Rini Education Authority are joining forces to extend the reach of education to the grassroots communities in Marovo.

She said the partnership symbolizes a shared vision and a commitment to providing educational opportunities that will uplift the lives of countless individuals.

She said SINU recognizes that education is not just a privilege but a fundamental right, and we are determined to make this right a reality for all.

“By bringing educational resources and facilities closer to the residents of Marovo, we are not only making learning more accessible but also tailoring it to meet the unique needs and aspirations of this community.”

“The benefits of this initiative are manifold and far-reaching, extending beyond the classroom walls to touch every aspect of community life.”

Furthermore, she said the DFL Centre will act as a catalyst for economic development, the availability of higher education in Marovo through the DFL Centre will promote social mobility, the DFL Centre will enhance social cohesion and community empowerment, and the DFL Centre will contribute to the preservation and promotion of local culture and traditions.

Not only that, but she said the establishment of the SINU DFL Centre in Marovo is a transformative initiative that promises to bring about a multitude of benefits for the community.

With that, she said the partnership between SINU and the Snyder Rini Education Authority is a visionary endeavour that promises to transform the educational landscape of Marovo.

She then commended the dedication and foresight of the Snyder Rini Education Authority for its unwavering commitment to the betterment of education in Marovo.

Speaking on behalf of SREA Kenny Jerry thanked SINU for signing the MoU with SREA last year where he also congratulated both parties for the milestone reached with the successful launching.

Mr. Jerry said with the DFL Centre at SR Academy it helps bring tertiary education closer to the people of Marovo and presents an opportunity to address the education dilemma faced by SR Academy which is lack of access to quality education opportunity.

Also speaking at the launching event, SR Academy School Principal Detke Posala said the collaboration is an exciting one which comes with its own challenges.

Mr. Posala said the challenge now is for them to work hard to meet the expected standard.

The event was attended and witnessed by SR Academy students, staff, parents and guardians.

The event started at 11 am and concluded at 2pm.

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