As one of the three selected pilot schools, St Nicholas welcomed the opportunity with gratitude, but for many students the event was a chance to be seen as innovators, creators and students with meaningful contributions to their country’s development, despite the ongoing challenges they face in accessing STEM education opportunities.
Across the school grounds, student teams presented hands-on activities with excitement. Girls and boys worked side by side, explaining their ideas and showing what happens when curiosity is encouraged in the classroom. Their participation also reflected one of the project’s central goals, advancing gender transformation by challenging stereotypes, expanding opportunities for girls in STEM, and promoting more inclusive learning environments where every student can thrive.
Their confidence reflected the promise behind the project: that STEM education can open doors, challenge stereotypes and help young people imagine new possibilities for themselves and for their country.
That message was reinforced by education leaders and partners who delivered key remarks at the launch ceremony and had described STEM not simply as a subject area, but as an investment in the future of the Solomon Islands.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Franco Rodie, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development, emphasized the urgency of expanding opportunity in this field.
STEM education is no longer an optional luxury; it is the very engine of the modern economy.
Dr Franco Rodie, Permanent Secretary, MEHRD.
The launch also highlighted the importance of partnership. As a significant donor to the project, China’s support reflects a broader vision of advancing development through STEM education by equipping young people with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to innovation, economic progress and national development. Gu Wenlong, Head of Political Section at the Chinese Embassy, noted that education knowledge and strengthens ties between people and countries.
Representing UNESCO, National Project Officer Berris Olitisa said the initiative is about nurturing a generation of thinkers and problem-solvers who can help shape a more innovative and resilient future. Her remarks echoed what was already visible throughout the day: students responding with enthusiasm when given the space to explore, test ideas and participate actively in learning.
Together, we can inspire the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders.
Berris Olitisa, UNESCO National Project Officer, speaking on behalf of Sardar Umar Alam, Director of the UNESCO Regional Office for the Pacific States.
For a school community of around 1,500 students and 80 teachers, the launch signals the beginning of a wider journey. At St Nicholas Anglican College, where students from different backgrounds come together to learn, the project offers an opportunity to strengthen access to quality STEM learning and encourage wider participation, including among girls and other learners who may not always see themselves represented in advanced science and technology pathways.
read more: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/unesco-and-mehrd-launch-new-stem-education-initiative-solomon-islands?hub=701
