Young Solomon Islanders Hold the Key to Our Nation’s Future.

At the Solomon Islands National University’s inaugural Panatina Research Seminar, Vice-Chancellor Professor Transform Aqorau delivered an inspiring message that placed young people at the centre of the nation’s development agenda.

The seminar, jointly supported by the Australian National University and the Australian Government, as a vital step in solving the country's national development puzzle.

Solomon Islands National University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Transform Aqorau, delivers inspiring remarks at the inaugural Panatina Research Seminar, calling for youth-led innovation to drive the nation’s sustainable development future.

Reflecting on the day’s discussions, Professor Aqorau said the Solomon Islands represents “a microcosm of the development pressures faced across the Pacific” — from climate change and ecological degradation to unemployment and high energy costs.

Yet, he added, within these challenges lies hope. “If we can find innovative solutions here, they can echo throughout the region,” he said.

Professor Aqorau asserted that the Solomon Islands' growing youth population is both a challenge and a massive opportunity. “We have a rising generation of young Solomon Islanders searching for education and opportunity,” he said. “Their energy and creativity are key to building a more inclusive and resilient Solomon Islands.”

The seminar brought together students, researchers, and development partners to discuss topics ranging from climate resilience and fisheries to youth empowerment and good governance.

The Vice-Chancellor associated the discussions to a “national development puzzle,” where each session contributed a vital piece to understanding the country’s path forward.

“When we connect the insights from climate science to the needs of rural farmers, link good governance to the delivery of education, and weave together traditional knowledge with innovation, we begin to see the full picture emerge.”

Professor Aqorau reaffirmed SINU’s commitment to ensuring that knowledge and opportunity reach every corner of the country — from Honiara to the most remote villages.

He described inclusive national development as a promise that no one will be left behind as we pursue progress.

As the event concluded, Aqorau encouraged young people to take ownership of their nation’s future.

“This seminar has shown that SINU can be the beating heart of national dialogue and development,” he said. “The conversations of now must continue tomorrow, and the next day.”