PRESS RELEASE
8 May 2026
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) today hosted a high-level delegation from Pasifika Communities University (PCU) in a significant official visit aimed at strengthening institutional collaboration and advancing regional partnerships in education, research, and leadership development.
The PCU delegation was led by Pro-Chancellor Dr Akanisi Kedrayate and included Mrs Leituala Kuiniselani Toelupe Tago, Dean of Research and Strategic Partnership; Mr Sirino Rakabi, Director of the Institute of Regional Leadership Development; and Mr Brian Bird, Registrar.
The visit provided an opportunity for both institutions to reflect on outcomes from previous engagements, including discussions held during the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Meeting in Honiara in 2025, and to explore new pathways for future cooperation.
Key areas of focus included:
- Strengthening collaboration between SINU and PCU
- Strategic discussions with the Faculty of Education and Humanities (FEH)
- Reviewing progress from prior regional engagements and identifying future opportunities
The programme commenced with a courtesy call, where the delegation was received by Acting Vice-Chancellor Associate Professor Eric Katovai and Pro Vice-Chancellor Corporate Dr William Parairato and team.
Discussions centred on shared priorities, strengthening institutional ties, and follow-up actions from the 2025 PIF engagements. The meeting also explored collaboration opportunities with key stakeholders and the development of future joint programmes and initiatives.
In his remarks, Acting Vice-Chancellor Associate Professor Eric Katovai stated,
“we are pleased to welcome the delegation from Pasifika Communities University to SINU. This visit reflects our shared commitment to strengthening regional partnerships in higher education, research, and leadership development. SINU values collaboration that supports quality education outcomes and meaningful engagement across the Pacific region.”
In response, PCU Pro-Chancellor Dr Akanisi Kedrayate said,
“Pasifika Communities University is pleased to engage with Solomon Islands National University through this important visit. It is encouraging to see SINU’s continued growth and development as a leading institution since its transition. Our discussions reflect a shared vision to strengthen regional cooperation in higher education, research, and leadership development. We look forward to working together on initiatives that benefit our institutions and the wider Pacific community.”
Later in the day, the delegation visited the Panatina Campus, where they were welcomed by Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities, Dr Patricia Rodie, and her team. They met with members of the Faculty of Education and Humanities (FEH).
Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities, Dr Patricia Rodie, welcomed the PCU delegation and acknowledged the importance of strengthening academic collaboration and regional partnerships in education, research, and staff development.
At FEH, discussions focused on deepening academic collaboration and exploring opportunities for joint programmes, research, and staff engagement, aligned with regional priorities.
The visit is expected to strengthen the partnership between SINU and PCU, provide clear direction for collaborative programmes in education and leadership development, and establish agreed next steps for future cooperation.
This visit marks an important step forward in deepening regional collaboration and enhancing higher education partnerships across the Pacific, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing educational excellence and leadership development in the region.
ENDS//