Press Release
02 October 2025ย
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and Kolobangara Forest Plantation Limited (KFPL) have agreed to establish a Joint Taskforce to address outstanding matters relating to the subdivision of land at Poitete Campus, Kolobangara Island.
This agreement was reached during the third round of consultations held at Poitete Campus, Western Province. The Joint Taskforce will review existing reports, clarify boundary and land-use issues, and develop Terms of Reference (ToR) to guide its work. It will operate under a clear mandate to resolve all outstanding matters collaboratively and constructively, providing a transparent framework to secure the future of Poitete Campus.
Representing SINU, Dr. Vaeno Vigulu, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, reaffirmed the Universityโs commitment to the subdivision process, emphasizing that SINUโs development is a matter of national interest with long-term benefits for Kolobangara communities, Western Province, and the Solomon Islands as a whole.
Dr. Vigulu noted that SINU has already held consultations with the Perpetual Estate (PE) holders,ย the Ngedoana Land Trust Board and Kolobangara Land Trust Boards (KLTB 1 and 2),ย who have expressed their support for SINUโs vision. He further stressed that any internal disputes between parties should be resolved through the appropriate legal channels and must not hinder SINUโs development plans for Poitete Campus.
Mr. Edwin Scramm, General Manager of KFPL, welcomed SINUโs position and acknowledged the importance of ongoing consultations. He called for further clarification on key practical matters, including land boundaries and the costs associated with relocating the Poitete forestry nursery. He also highlighted the absence of a formal framework governing the establishment of Poitete Campus and emphasized the need to address this through constructive dialogue.
Speaking on behalf of SINU, Mr. Edward Biku, Secretary to the SINU Council, reiterated that the University has firmly established its interest in developing Poitete as a national forestry school. He stated that this strategic direction aligns with SINUโs long-term vision and will be central to strengthening donor confidence and advancing national development.
Mr. Biku further noted that as KFPLโs Fixed Term Estate (FTE) leases approach completion, it is increasingly important to recognize the authority of the Perpetual Estate holders. Constructive engagement with these parties, he said, will be vital to achieving sustainable and mutually beneficial outcomes. He also acknowledged KFPLโs continuous support through the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the foundational framework for SINUโs presence at Poitete, and encouraged both parties to review and strengthen the MoU to advance shared interests.
Both SINU and KFPL agreed that the establishment of the Joint Taskforce marks a significant step forward. It reflects a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, ensuring that outstanding issues and grey areas regarding the land are addressed transparently and in good faith. The outcomes of the Taskforceโs work will pave the way for a formal agreement on the subdivision of Poitete Campus land.
SINU remains committed to working in close partnership with KFPL, the PE holders, and all relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful development of Poitete Campus, a project that will bring lasting benefits to students, local communities, and the nation as a whole.
ENDS//