Siro Community High School receives new girls dormitory and ablution block

Siro Community High School, Central Province, Solomon Islands (19 March 2024) – Australia and New Zealand officially handed over the new Siro Community High School – Girls Dormitory and Ablution Block project on 19 March 2024, through their partnership under the Solomon Islands Education Sector Support Program (ESSP).

The project was funded by Australian and New Zealand governments in partnership with Solomon Islands Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development.  The new two-story dormitory at Siro Community High School provides safe and secure boarding facilities for 60 female students from Siro and neighboring areas. The dormitory and ablution block includes ramps, ensuring access for students of all abilities and fostering an environment where every child can learn and thrive.

The ceremony was attended by Deputy Secretary Coldrine Kolae from the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD); His Excellency Rod Hilton, Australian High Commissioner; Political and Economic Adviser Nelson Kere, New Zealand High Commission; and Patrick Ngidua, Principal Siro Community High School.

The new education infrastructure at Siro Community High School is a step towards inclusive education in the Central Province. The girls’ dormitory and ablution block is an investment in the future, promoting equality and empowering Solomon Islands children.

The Solomon Islands Education Sector Support Program (ESSP) provides the strategic direction and implementation arrangements for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) combined investment to support the Solomon Islands Government to implement its Education Strategic Framework (ESF) 2016-2030 and the National Education Action Plan.