SINU Strengthens Partnership for Mariculture and Agriculture Innovation

Solomon Islands National University (SINU) is forging new paths in the fields of marine aquaculture and agriculture through strategic public-private partnerships.

Professor Transform Aqorau, Vice-Chancellor of SINU, Honorable Laurence Kile, Premier of Isabel Province, and representatives from JQY Company held a high-level meeting, laying the groundwork for an innovative collaboration. This collaboration will leverage international expertise to promote economic development in the Solomon Islands.

Discussions centered on adopting a forward-thinking public-private partnership (PPP) model to strengthen marine aquaculture and agriculture, with a particular focus on sea cucumber farming. The involvement of the Ocean University of China is a crucial component of this initiative, bringing extensive research expertise and technical know-how in sustainable marine aquaculture and fisheries. This collaboration is expected to foster knowledge exchange, capacity building, and local employment, while ensuring environmentally responsible industry growth.

Speaking on the importance of public-private partnerships, Professor Aqorau stated, "The only way for the Solomon Islands to fully realize its economic potential is through strong public-private partnerships. By leveraging the resources and expertise of both the public and private sectors, we can drive sustainable economic growth, create jobs, and empower our people with new skills. This collaboration in marine aquaculture and agriculture will not only enhance food security but also open up new export opportunities for our nation."

Honorable Laurence Kile, Premier of Isabel Province, welcomed the initiative and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in developing the provincial economy. He reaffirmed his government's commitment to facilitating investment opportunities that align with the province's development goals. JQY Company, a key private sector participant, expressed confidence in the collaboration and reiterated its commitment to supporting the mobilization of resources and technical assistance to advance the initiative.

The proposed collaboration aligns with SINU's broader vision of positioning itself as a driver of innovation and sustainable economic development in the Solomon Islands. By partnering with leading international institutions such as the Ocean University of China, SINU continues to champion research-led solutions to address critical industry challenges while enhancing the well-being of local communities. This meeting marks the beginning of a transformative journey, laying the foundation for a dynamic partnership that will make meaningful contributions to the economic resilience of the Solomon Islands.