PRIME Minister Manasseh Sogavare has applauded the leadership of the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) for seizing the opportunity to allow the Peoples Republic of China (PRC)-funded dormitory project on its premises at Kukum Campus.
The project “Implementation Agreement” was signed on Friday 12 November between the National Hosting Authority (NHA) and Peoples Republic of China Embassy in Honiara.
The project was proposed to the Peoples Republic of China when the NHA in planning for accommodation spaces in 2023 for the Pacific Games came short of the required accommodation spaces.
Instead of investing in low-cost accommodation just for the games, the NHA consulted with SINU and the PRC Embassy and proposed a dormitory complex that can be used as a Games Village during the games but one that has a lasting legacy of gifting to SINU and the people of Solomon Islands a modern dormitory complex that belongs to SINU.
“I thank the leadership of SINU for recognising this important opportunity to enhance its facilities,” Sogavare said.
The Prime Minister applauded the government and people of the Peoples Republic of China for willingly funding the project which will enhance the capacity of SINU, transforms its image, and provide ultra-modern facilities for students to the level and quality of hotel accommodation.
The Dormitory complex cost approximately 172.4 million Solomon Island dollars [21.4 million US dollars], an amount extremely difficult for the government to investment in its own institution.
According Sogavare, the 2023 Pacific Games is the most important flagship project by the government. Not only will it leave behind its own legacy of sporting facilities for the future and young generations to use, but it is a catalyst for development in other sectors.
Besides the project, the NHA is already consulting with the Ministry of Health for the upgrading of the National Referral Hospital in time for the 2023 Pacific Games as well as with the Solomon Islands Water Authority for the upgrading of the water supply and sewerage systems in the capital by November 2023.
Sogavare urged SINU to look after the facilities once handed down to the institution after the Games.
The project comprised of 3 x 4-story accommodation blocks, 1 multipurpose activity hall and 1 equipment building with capacity to accommodate around 900 students.
Source: Government Communications Unit [GCU]
