SITESA Supports Tabaka Technical Institute with SBD800,000 Grant

Tabaka Technical Institute, located on Banga Island in Western Province, has received SBD800,000 from the Solomon Islands Tertiary Education and Skills Authority (SITESA) to support the completion of its dining hall.

The funding will improve student facilities and provide a more functional, safe, and inclusive environment for learning, meals, and school activities.

The handover of the grant was witnessed by members of the SITESA Board and representatives from Pacific Australia Skills, students, and members of the local community, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening technical and vocational education across the country.

SITESA Chief Executive Officer Ms Constance Nasi said the support reflects SITESA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening training institutions across Solomon Islands.

“When we visited Tabaka, we saw students learning, gathering, and sharing meals in spaces that were not so conducive to their growing needs. This support is about improving that experience,” Ms Nasi said.

She said the completed dining hall will provide students with a safe and welcoming space that supports the students’ wellbeing.

“At its heart, this support is about ensuring students have a place where they feel supported, where they can connect with one another, and where their learning journey is strengthened every day,” she said.

Tabaka Technical Institute Principal Mr Lawrence Joash welcomed the support, describing it as a meaningful development for the school community.

“For a long time, our students have adapted to limited space, sharing areas for meals, meetings, and learning. It has not always been easy,” Mr Joash said.

“This dining hall represents more than a building. It is a space where our students can come together, build relationships, and experience school life in a more supportive and inclusive environment,” he said.

He added that once completed, the facility will play an important role in daily school life, supporting not only meals but also learning activities and community gatherings.

The new dining hall will stand as a symbol of thoughtful investment in students by Solomon Islands Government and TVET stakeholders, recognising that quality training is not only about classrooms, but also about the spaces where students connect, grow, and feel a sense of belonging.