Breaking Barriers: Students with Disabilities Inspired by Visit to Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre

Eleven construction and carpentry students from the San Isidro Care Centre and Bethesda Rural Training Centre are breaking barriers and redefining perceptions of disability in the Solomon Islands.

The students, who have varying levels of hearing and speech impairments, recently toured the Australian-supported Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre construction site. They are currently undertaking training in woodwork, furniture-making, and basic construction skills, determined to pursue careers in an industry often considered out of reach for people with disabilities.

The visit, facilitated by Australia’s infrastructure program, was designed to inspire and empower students with disabilities by showing them that their skills and ambitions have a place in Solomon Islands’ growing construction sector.

Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said the visit demonstrated Australia’s commitment to breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities.

“Australia has a long and proud track record in the Pacific of supporting men and women with disabilities to reach their full potential,” High Commissioner Hilton said.

“This includes supporting people with special needs to learn a trade, and providing opportunities to see where their skills can take them. These students can make a valuable contribution to building Solomon Islands, and a stronger, more inclusive community.”

One of the most powerful moments for the students was meeting Patrick Sali, a team leader at the site who has a speech and hearing impairment. Patrick communicates with his team through sign language and is proof that an inclusive worksite enables anyone with the right skills to thrive.

Students from San Isidro Care Centre expressed their excitement after the tour, saying it gave them a clear vision of what is possible. One student shared that seeing Patrick in action gave them hope for their own future: “He is like us, and he is part of something big. It shows we can do it too.”

Carpentry instructor at the Bethesda Disability Training and Support Centre, Peter Aho, said the visit had a life-changing impact on his students.

“This visit has been very impactful for our students with special needs. It’s showed them what lies beyond the training centre, and gives a strong motivation for their future employment,” Mr Aho said.

The SBD250 million Naha Birthing and Urban Health Centre has already created nearly 200 skilled jobs during construction, including apprenticeship opportunities for Solomon Islands National University students. Once complete, it will provide essential outpatient and birthing services, while leaving behind a workforce trained in Australian safety and building standards.

High Commissioner Hilton added that through this project, Australia is working hand in hand with Solomon Islanders to challenge perceptions of disability, proving that people with special needs are capable contributors to the nation’s development.

“Through #SIAusPartnership, we’re proud to be a part of the long-term future of Solomon Islands, including those with special needs, helping to develop skills, gain workplace exposure, and aspire to a career in the infrastructure sector.”