BY CHRIS ALEX
AS Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High Performance Complex Centre prepares to undergo transition into a new phase of operations, local athletes are raising concern about the future of the High Performance Centre.
SINIS is still awaiting confirmation from the government’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) regarding whether it will be administered under the National Sports Council (NSC) or be a ‘Stand-Alone Institute’ to administer its future operations in the country.
This significant development under the transitional phase, recently announced by SINIS, will mark a new era for the potential administration and management of high-performance sports activities in the country.
One of the major concerns among athletes is the impact on their preparations for upcoming regional and international competitions—the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games 2024, the Palau Mini Pacific Games 2025, and other upcoming tournaments.
Many of them feel that they have been left in the dark about the details of the alleged transitional and restructuring process, leading to uncertainty and anxiety about their future sports preparations, purposely to use the facilities and undergo the programs at the High Performance Centre.
Local sprinter Jovita Ambrose, preparing for the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow, Scotland expressed disappointment over the government’s delay in deciding the transition phase of SINIS.
“As athletes, we really need SINIS and its staff to help with our preparations for upcoming regional and international competitions.
“It is very sad if the relevant government authorities do not meet quickly in order detail us about the transitional and restructuring process of the High Performance Centre,” said Ambrose.
Likewise, XVII Pacific Games 2023 Para-Table Tennis gold medalist Maelas Mamu highlighted SINIS High Performance Centre as a vital institute that goes beyond sports, transforming the lives of athletes.
Meanwhile, SINIS staff contracts have been extended until March 31, 2024. The decision to extend the contracts was made in order to give time to discuss the longer term arrangements and funding for the Institute. This will allow for a more sustainable and secured future for the employees and ensure the smooth functioning of the institute.
SINIS look forward to continue its operations and fulfil its responsibilities towards athletes and coaches of Solomon Islands.
