Press Release
27 February 2026
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has successfully concluded its week-long Orientation Week on a high note, ahead of the commencement of the 2026 academic year next Monday.
Speaking at the closing ceremony held at the Kukum Campus Common Hall, Acting Vice Chancellor, Associate Professor Eric Katovai, encouraged new students to dream boldly while working diligently to achieve their educational goals.
βAs we bring this Orientation Week to a close, I wish to thank each of you β our staff, student leaders, and organising teams β for the energy, professionalism, and warmth you have demonstrated throughout the week,β he said.
Addressing the new students, Associate Professor Katovai warmly welcomed them to SINU.
βYou are now part of the premier national institution entrusted with shaping the intellectual, professional, and ethical future of our country. This is not just a place to obtain a qualification; it is a community of scholarship, discipline, and growth,β he said.
He reminded students that while university life comes with challenges, they were admitted because of their potential.
βYou will be challenged. You will be stretched. There will be moments of pressure and moments of doubt. But remember this: you were admitted here because you have potential. Discipline, consistency, humility, and resilience will determine how far you go.β
He further urged students to make full use of their lecturers, respect deadlines, uphold integrity, form meaningful academic friendships, and take ownership of their learning journey.
To returning students, he encouraged them to lead by example, mentor new students, and model academic honesty and responsible conduct.
βThe culture of this university is shaped not only by policy, but by your daily behaviour,β he emphasised.
Associate Professor Katovai also expressed appreciation to staff for their continued dedication.
βThe work you do in classrooms, laboratories, offices, libraries, and support services forms the backbone of this institution. As we begin this academic year, let us recommit ourselves to excellence, fairness, and service to our students and to the nation.β
He highlighted that the new academic year presents opportunities for renewal, including strengthening quality, deepening research, enhancing student support, and fostering partnerships.
βStudents, I encourage you to dream boldly but work diligently. Staff, I encourage you to continue guiding with wisdom and integrity. Together, we shape not only graduates, but the future leadership of Solomon Islands.β
In closing, he shared a message of perseverance and hope from Galatians 6:9: βLet us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.β
βMay this academic year be fruitful, purposeful, and successful for each one of you. Thank you, and may God bless you all. May God bless Solomon Islands National University.β
During the closing ceremony, ongoing students who served as Student Buddy Leaders throughout Orientation Week were presented with Certificates of Recognition for their efforts in supporting first-year students.
ENDS//