Press Release
3 July 2026
Bachelor of Business Entrepreneurship student Don Creflo Kekegolo has returned with valuable insights and a deeper understanding of regional issues after participating in the inaugural Pacific Political Science Masterclass 2026, hosted by the University of New Caledonia in Nouméa from 22–27 June 2026. Don was the first Solomon Islands National University (SINU) student selected to participate in the regional programme.
The inaugural Pacific Political Science Masterclass brought together advanced students, young professionals, diplomats, leaders, and researchers from across the Pacific region and Europe to explore issues of sovereignty, governance, regional cooperation, and Indo-Pacific geopolitics. The programme also explored issues surrounding New Caledonia’s history, decolonisation, governance, social inequalities, and Indo-Pacific geopolitics.
Throughout the masterclass, Don attended lectures delivered by leading scholars and visited several important institutions, including the Customary Senate, the High Commission, the Government and Congress of New Caledonia, the French Armed Forces in New Caledonia (FANC) military base, and the Pacific Community (SPC). He also participated in workshops highlighting the role of customary authorities in public policy. The programme concluded with a traditional ceremony at the Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre.
Reflecting on his experience, Don said the opportunity broadened his understanding of the Pacific and strengthened his academic aspirations.
“Attending the Pacific Political Science Masterclass 2026 at the University of New Caledonia in Nouméa was an unforgettable experience. Over the week, I gained a much deeper, firsthand understanding of decolonisation, governance, and regional diplomacy that goes far beyond what I could learn from a textbook.”
He said the programme also challenged him to think more critically and provided an opportunity to build meaningful connections with scholars and fellow students from across the Pacific.
“The experience sharpened my critical thinking, connected me with scholars and peers from across the Pacific, and gave me a clearer sense of the role I hope to play in shaping political and academic discourse in the Solomon Islands and the wider region.”
Don expressed his sincere gratitude to Solomon Islands National University for supporting his participation in the regional programme.
“I am sincerely thankful to Solomon Islands National University for giving me this opportunity to represent the University. It is an experience I will carry with me throughout my academic journey and beyond.”
SINU is proud of Don’s achievement and remains committed to providing students with opportunities to participate in regional and international learning experiences that broaden their perspectives, strengthen their academic development, and prepare them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the Pacific region.
ENDS//