Press Release
8 July 2026
The Faculty of Education and Humanities (FEH) at Solomon Islands National University (SINU) successfully hosted a stakeholder consultation on the proposed Postgraduate Diploma in Chaplaincy Studies (PGDipChap) at the Faculty of Education and Humanities Complex, bringing together representatives from churches, faith-based organisations, government ministries, public institutions, the health and correctional services, the education sector, and community leaders.
The consultation forms part of SINU’s programme development process, ensuring that new academic programmes are developed in close partnership with key stakeholders and are aligned with national priorities and workforce needs.
Opening the consultation, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanities, Dr. Patricia Rodie, welcomed participants and acknowledged the important role they play in shaping a programme that responds to the growing demand for professionally trained chaplains in Solomon Islands.
Dr. Rodie said the proposed postgraduate qualification reflects SINU’s commitment to developing academic programmes that address emerging national needs while strengthening communities and institutions across the country.
“The proposed Postgraduate Diploma in Chaplaincy Studies has been developed in response to the increasing need for qualified chaplains who possess not only theological knowledge but also advanced skills in pastoral care, counselling, clinical practice and psychological support,” she said.
She noted that chaplains continue to provide vital spiritual, emotional and psychosocial support in schools, hospitals, correctional centres, universities, care facilities and other institutions. However, Solomon Islands currently has no nationally accredited postgraduate qualification specifically designed to prepare professionals for chaplaincy practice.
“The University recognises that developing a quality academic programme cannot be done in isolation. This consultation provides an opportunity for stakeholders to contribute their knowledge and experience to ensure the programme is academically rigorous, professionally relevant, culturally appropriate and responsive to the needs of Solomon Islands,” Dr. Rodie added.
Participants engaged in presentations, discussions and group activities designed to gather feedback on the proposed curriculum, programme outcomes and graduate competencies. Their contributions will help strengthen the programme before it proceeds through the University’s academic approval process.
The proposed programme is intended as a one-year professional postgraduate qualification, with an optional Postgraduate Certificate exit pathway. It is primarily designed for practising chaplains while also providing opportunities for professionals from related fields—including education, nursing, social work, theology and other human service professions—to enhance their knowledge and practice of chaplaincy.
Dr. Rodie also acknowledged the efforts of the School of Humanities, led by Head of School Rev. Dr. Ben Wate and his team, for developing the programme concept and organising the consultation.
If approved, the Postgraduate Diploma in Chaplaincy Studies will become the first nationally accredited postgraduate qualification in chaplaincy in Solomon Islands, equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills and professional competencies to serve effectively across a range of institutional and community settings.
ENDS//