Telebere News

Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) has solidified its commitment to fostering youth entrepreneurship and innovation in the Solomon Islands by becoming the Platinum Sponsor for the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) Awards 2025. The significant partnership was formalized today during a signing ceremony. The event was officiated by the Minister for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Choylin Yim-Douglas, and was witnessed by senior ministry officials, YECSI Chairman Mr. Limahl Totogi, and members of the YECSI Secretariat. Valued at SBD$50,000, the Platinum Sponsorship secures naming rights for two prestigious award categories:   MCT Tourism Entrepreneur of the Year   Provincial Entrepreneur of the Year   Minister Yim-Douglas said Ministry is pleased to back an initiative that recognizes young business leaders driving change nationwide. “Our young entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of innovation and growth," she said. "Supporting them through YECSI reflects ...

Female students at Betikama Adventist College now have a safer and more secure living environment following the completion of a locally-led infrastructure project, supported by the Australian Government. The project, funded through the Solomon Islands–Australia Community Partnerships Program, delivered a 410-metre security fence along the boundary of the girls’ dormitory.  This new fence creates a more effective barrier against unauthorized access, directly safeguarding student wellbeing and fostering a better learning environment. This one is for the girls: female Australian High Commission staff celebrate the new perimeter fence around the girls dormitory at Betikama Adventist College.  Beyond safety, the initiative also provided a boost to the local Solomon Islands economy by sourcing all building materials and transportation services from local businesses.  This approach reinforced the value of community-driven development, creating economic opportunities alongside ...

Twenty-four academic staff from Solomon Islands National University (SINU) have graduated from the inaugural Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Teaching and Learning, delivered through the Australian Government’s Australia Awards program. Dr Tristan Armstrong, Counsellor for Human Development at the Australian High Commission; Ms Jeanette Siama, Award Recipient; Dr Nicole Pepperell, Associate Professor of Curriculum at the University of Technology Sydney; Dr William Parairato,  Acting Vice Chancellor and Pro Vice Chancellor (Corporate) at Solomon Islands National University – pictured during the Awards Ceremony of the Australia Award ‘Graduate Certificate in Higher Education, Teaching and Learning (GCHETL) ’   Short Course, held in SINU Marine Lecture Theatre on 21 October 2025.   Delivered by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in partnership with SINU, the short course marks a major step forward in strengthening teaching excellence and student-centred learn...

Across the Solomon Islands, a new generation is not waiting for change—they are building it. From Honiara to the most remote provinces, young entrepreneurs are launching businesses that drive innovation, create jobs, and define our nation's future. Organisations like the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) are harnessing this energy, helping turn bold ideas into real, thriving ventures. These youth-led enterprises are solving local problems with tech solutions and building sustainable businesses from our unique local products. But while our youth are stepping up, the system is letting them down. We are actively holding them back with barriers they cannot overcome alone. A recent World Bank report confirms what every young entrepreneur already knows: access to finance is the single greatest obstacle. Forty per cent of all formal businesses cite this as a major challenge. For young people, who lack the collateral banks demand, this barrier is nearly impossib...

Solomon Islands has captured international attention after being named one of Lonely Planet’s “Top 25 Best in Travel for 2026.” The recognition places the island nation among the world’s must-visit destinations — and as the only South Pacific country on the prestigious list, it marks a proud moment for Solomon Islanders and the region’s growing tourism industry. The announcement follows the visit of Lonely Planet Destination Editor for Oceania, Jessica Lockhart, who travelled through the Solomon Islands last November under Tourism Solomons’ International Media Visitation Program. Pictured  Jessica Lockhart (on right) with Tourism Solomons marketing officer, Eldona Lokay on Savo island Her journey offered an intimate glimpse into the country’s natural beauty, cultural depth, and adventure-filled landscapes. Lockhart’s itinerary was nothing short of breathtaking — from hiking the mist-covered trails of Kolombangara and snorkelling the crystal-clear waters of Njari Island, to cl...

Seventeen Australia Awards alumni from across the Solomon Islands have been learning firsthand from the Tina River Hydropower Development Project — Australia’s largest climate investment in the Pacific . The alumni attended a workshop led by Project Manager Mr Pradip Verma, who delivered practical lessons from his experience managing the large-scale project. Participants explored key themes including project planning, community engagement, sustainability, and inclusive development. Group photo of Australia Awards Alumni and guests who participated in the Infrastructure Workshop organised by Australia Awards Solomon Islands in partnership with the Tina River Hydropower Development Project. The workshop was a joint initiative between Australia Awards Solomon Islands and the Tina River Hydropower Project Office, designed to strengthen local capacity to deliver major infrastructure projects. Acting Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Andrew Schloeffel, praised the initiati...

The Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) is calling on local brands and businesses to come onboard as sponsors and partners for its biggest event of the year — the 2025 YECSI Awards, set to take place on November 13. The event celebrates the innovation, resilience, and achievements of young Solomon Islanders who are driving entrepreneurship and community impact across the country. YECSI is inviting corporate sponsors, organizations, and government partners to be part of this vibrant celebration of youth empowerment and business excellence. According to YECSI, the event provides a unique opportunity for brands to gain visibility among hundreds of young entrepreneurs, business leaders, and key stakeholders. Sponsors will also receive extensive exposure through YECSI’s social media platforms and other media coverage, highlighting their support for youth-driven economic growth. YECSI Coordinator, Moses Jnr Aunama said, “This is more than just an event — it’s a celebr...

Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) has stepped forward with a major show of support for young entrepreneurs, committing $30,000 as a Gold Sponsor for the upcoming YECSI Awards 2025. The announcement, made by Minister Hon. Franklyn Derek Wasi during a signing ceremony in Honiara, underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen youth participation in agribusiness and make agriculture a more appealing and sustainable career path for young Solomon Islanders. “We are very pleased to be supporting this prestigious event,” said Minister Wasi. “We recognize the critical role that YECSI plays among our young entrepreneurs, especially in driving interest in the agri-business sector. Our youth are the future of agriculture in the Solomon Islands.” The sponsorship reflects the strong partnership between MAL and the Young Entrepreneurs Council of Solomon Islands (YECSI), building on previous collaborations such as the Cocoa and Coconut Revolving Fund (CCRF) and a Memorandu...

A growing number of Solomon Islanders are calling for a more sustainable and community-driven approach to tourism, according to the results of the 2024 Community Attitude Survey (CAS) jointly released by the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), Tourism Solomons, and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT). Conducted between November 2024 and June 2025, the CAS is the first nationwide study of its kind, engaging 1,280 respondents across all nine provinces. There is strong national support for expanding community-based and eco-tourism initiatives that empower local villages, youth, and women . The survey, which analysed 1,264 valid responses, captured the views of both citizens (98%) and resident non-citizens (2%), providing an unprecedented snapshot of national sentiment toward tourism development. The findings reveal strong public consensus that tourism plays a vital role in shaping the Solomon Islands’ future — as an engine for economic growth, employment creation, cultural preser...

Across the Solomon Islands, Rural Training Centres (RTCs) have become vital gateways for young people seeking practical skills, employment, and self-reliance. In a country where about 85 percent of the population lives in rural communities, these centres are helping bridge the gap between education and livelihood — equipping youth with tools to build their futures and contribute to national development. Recognizing this critical role, Hatanga Ltd, one of the country’s leading construction and infrastructure companies, looking into possible opportunities to strengthen partnerships with RTCs as a way to empower rural youth. Hatanga’s Managing Director, Jay Bartlett, was in Seghe for work recently and in that time did a visit to Batuna Rural Training Centre (RTC) in Western Province — an experience he described as both eye-opening and inspiring. Bartlett in his LinkedIn post said the visit was not just about infrastructure or construction projects but about creating meaningful oppor...

Solomon Islands has taken a bold step to fight climate change by launching the Strengthening Inclusive Adaptation Capacity in Solomon Islands (SIAC-SI) Project, its first National Adaptation Plan. “For too long, our communities have faced the harsh impacts of climate change with limited resources and fragmented support. This initiative brings everyone together — government, development partners, and communities — to deliver one clear vision: a more resilient Solomon Islands,” said Hon. Polycarp Paea, Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology. Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, H.E. Rod Hilton, said, Australia welcomes the opportunity to partner with the Government of Solomon Islands and GGGI on this important flagship initiative. “We are supporting inclusive, science-based adaptation planning that ensures all Solomon Islanders — especially the most vulnerable — are better protected from the impacts of climate change. This partnershi...

A Hidden Gem by the Sea Tucked on the 1st Floor of the Millennium Domestic Terminal at Honiara’s Sea Port, Point Cross Dine is more than just a café —it’s a midday retreat where good food, warm service, and ocean breezes come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a local looking to unwind after a busy morning or a visitor exploring Honiara’s waterfront, this charming spot offers the ideal space to relax, eat, and take in the beauty of the sea. The seating is thoughtfully arranged so diners can enjoy panoramic views of the ocean while sharing conversation, making it a perfect escape from the city’s rush. Service with a Smile The service at Point Cross Dine deserves special mention. The staff are professional, attentive, and genuinely friendly, ensuring that every order is delivered with care. Their polished approach turns a simple lunch into a seamless and enjoyable experience that keeps diners coming back. A Menu that Celebrates Land and Sea The menu is a celebration of...

The Mbokonavera III community in Central Honiara will enjoy cleaner streets and safer neighborhoods thanks to a locally led waste management project supported by the Australian High Commission and Central Honiara Constituency. The project, funded through the Solomon Islands-Australia Community Partnerships program, has delivered seven lockable waste management stations across Mbokonavera III.  Each station is equipped with bins for household waste disposal and a solar-powered streetlight to improve safety and visibility at night, creating a more secure environment for families. Central Honiara Constituency Development Officer Mr Rexford Paul and Australian High Commission Political Counsellor Ms Heather Murphy celebrating the opening of the new waste management stations in Mbokonavera III.  This project is one of 186 community projects funded by Australia since 2023 to support community-driven development across Solomon Islands.  This project is one of nearly 200 co...

The Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) has officially unveiled the logo for its highly anticipated YECSI Awards 2025, an emblem rich with meaning and deeply rooted in Solomon Islands identity. The dynamic new design, crafted in the shape of a traditional canoe, powerfully encapsulates the theme “Powering Progress: Young Entrepreneurs Shaping Tomorrow.” The newly unveiled logo for the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) Awards 2025. Designed in the shape of a traditional canoe, the logo embodies the event's theme, "Powering Progress: Young Entrepreneurs Shaping Tomorrow." The three dots within represent the vital partnership between YECSI members, stakeholders, and the Solomon Islands Government, all journeying forward together. The logo is more than just an image; it is a narrative of collaboration and shared journey. It thoughtfully builds upon the foundation of the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) logo, which fe...

The Tivulu community in Munda, Western Province, is experiencing a remarkable transformation thanks to the community-led installation of safe water facilities. Since relocating inland after the 2007 tsunami, Tivulu community, especially women and children, faced daily challenges to fetch water over long distances. Water was often stored in unsafe open 44-gallon drums, leading to contamination and health risks. AASI Alumni Lynne Suti delivers 4 water tanks to Tivulu village in Munda, Western Province, supporting the community with safe and clean water.   To address this, community member Lynne Suti led a project that has delivered clean water and strengthened agricultural practices, bringing lasting change to families who have long struggled with water scarcity. Lynne is a graduate of the Australia Awards program and received funding for her project under the Australia Awards Alumni Support Grant. Through the Alumni Support Grant, Lynne coordinated the installation of four wat...