Supporting Jobs for Young People in ICT

The Solomon Islands Government Information Communication Technology Services Unit (SIG ICTSU) recently held a ceremony to celebrate the successful graduation of the second cohort of its Junior Professional Program (JPP). This program is led by the Solomon Islands Government and receives comprehensive support from the Australia-Solomon Islands Partnership.

The program aims to cultivate a strong and growing workforce for the local information and communication technology (ICT) industry. It provides young professionals aspiring to careers in ICT with opportunities to gain practical skills and industry experience, thereby helping them develop their careers in the ICT field.

Honorable Manasseh Sogavare, Minister of Finance and Treasury of the Solomon Islands, congratulated the JPP graduates and encouraged them to continue using their acquired skills and experience to contribute to the success of the Solomon Islands. His Excellency Rod Hilton, Australian High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, stated that Australia has invested 1.66 million Solomon Islands dollars in the past two years to provide financial support for the JPP.

High Commissioner Hilton said, "The graduates should be proud of their dedication and hard work." He added, "They are now role models for other young Solomon Islanders aspiring to enter the ICT field." Australia is pleased to be leading the way in creating career pathways and new employment opportunities for Solomon Islands youth through its partnership with the Solomon Islands Government.

The JPP has already achieved success, with graduates from the first two cohorts securing employment opportunities and continuing their professional development through internships in various agencies, including the SIG ICT Services Unit, the Customs Graduates Program, and the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. It is anticipated that up to 40 Solomon Islands youth will benefit from the program by the end of 2025, with at least two more cohorts planned for training this year. The partnership also supports SIG in establishing sustainable pathways to ensure the program continues beyond 2025.