Press Release
28 August 2026
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration (MCILI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to host the 2026 National Trade Fair at SINU Village.
SINU Vice Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau and MCILI Supervising Permanent Secretary Cornelius Donga signed the MoU at SINU’s Kukum Campus this morning.
The MoU formalises the terms and conditions under which SINU Village will be utilised as the official venue for the 2026 National Trade Fair, scheduled to be held from 7 to 14 September 2026.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Mr Donga said MCILI has maintained a long-standing partnership with SINU and welcomed the opportunity to host the National Trade Fair at the university.
He said MCILI, as the organiser of the National Trade Fair, was pleased to partner with SINU and use SINU Village as the venue for this year’s event.
Under the MoU, MCILI will undertake improvements to key facilities and infrastructure at SINU Village in preparation for the trade fair.
The planned improvements include the upgrading of ablution blocks, electrical and lighting systems, drainage and stormwater infrastructure, roads, walkways and parking areas. Other works will include improvements to fencing, gates and access control, as well as landscaping and signage.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Professor Aqorau welcomed the initiative and said the agreement demonstrated the importance of collaboration between government institutions.
He said SINU belongs to the Government and people of Solomon Islands, adding that partnerships between government entities provide a way forward in supporting national development initiatives.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by members of the SINU and MCILI teams.
The SINU delegation comprised Vice Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau, Executive International Relations Officer, Andrew Awa, and BICS Manager Samson Bisafo.
The MCILI delegation included Supervising Permanent Secretary Cornelius Donga, Chairman of the National Trade Fair 2026 Moses Waririu, Donalee Vozoto, and Junior Ma’ahuliu.
ENDS//