Education secures largest share, Health follows in 2026 National Budget

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Of the total $5.6 billion National Budget for 2026, the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) has received the highest sector allocation, amounting to $2.89 billion.

The allocation comprises a Recurrent Budget of $1.32 billion, a Development Budget of $87.7 million, and Donor Budget Support of $72.7 million.

The Ministry of Health received the second-largest allocation, with a substantial increase in funding. Its recurrent allocation for 2026 will be $728 million, while its development budget will rise from $44 million in 2025 to $70 million next year.

Minister for Education and Human Resources Development, Tozen Leokana, told Parliament the significant investment reflects the Government for National Unity and Transformation (GNUT)’s strong commitment to strengthening human capital, expanding access to education, and ensuring no child is left behind.

He said MEHRD continues to operate under strong strategic frameworks guided by the Education Sector Framework (ESF) 2016–2030 and the National Education Action Plan (NEAP) 2027–2031, which provide direction and stability in transforming the education system.

The Minister highlighted major achievements delivered under the 2025 Budget, including the introduction of a new teacher classification and salary structure following negotiations between the Government, MEHRD and the Solomon Islands National Teachers Association (SINTA), improving conditions for teachers nationwide.

Other key achievements include:

• Development of45 new textbook resources;

• Construction of23 school infrastructure projects scheduled for completion by 2026;

• Implementation of10 Senior Secondary School Education Improvement Projects funded by ADB;

• Awarding of2,682 national scholarships locally and overseas; and

• Introduction of a newtuition scholarship model set for implementation in 2026.

Looking ahead to 2026, Minister Leokana confirmed the approval of $129 million to settle outstanding teacher back pay in line with the SINTA agreement. He also announced that Early Childhood Education (ECE) and TVET teachers will begin receiving salaries under the new pay structure early next year.

Additional priorities include the implementation of the Teacher Housing and Annual Leave Policy, strengthening of Teacher Professional Development, and enforcement of the Education Act 2023.

Minister Leokana expressed full support for the Appropriation Bill 2026, describing it as responsible, strategic, and aligned with the national interest.