Education ministry prepares to host the National Principals’ conference

The Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) is gearing up to host the 2025 Solomon Islands Principals’ Conference from 25 – 27 June at the Solomon Islands National University, Panatina Campus.

With the theme “Creating a Better Future for Our Children in Solomon Islands Through Transformational Leadership,” the conference will bring together over 300 school leaders from across the country for a dynamic and engaging three-day program.

The conference is supported by the Governments of Australia and New Zealand through the Education Sector Support Program (ESSP) in partnership with MEHRD which aims to provide quality basic education for all children in Solomon Islands.

Conference highlights include keynote presentations from distinguished international speakers:

• Dr. Kabini Sanga, Associate Professor of Education, Victoria University of Wellington
• Mr. Richard Ledger, Global Engagement and Partnerships Strategy Manager, University of Newcastle
• Dr. Rhonda Di Biase, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Education, University of Melbourne
• Dr. Franco Rodie, Permanent Secretary, MEHRD
• Alongside other respected national (Dean and senior lecturers of SINU Faculty of Education and Humanities, MEHRD senior staff and educators) and international education leaders.

The conference will serve as a platform for professional dialogue, strategic reflection, and leadership renewal, with the aim of strengthening school leadership and building more resilient and effective schools throughout the country.

Key Subthemes of the 2025 Conference Include:

• Transformational Leadership for Purpose-Driven Schools – Exploring how school leaders can drive systemic change aligned with national education priorities.
• Policy Implementation and System Reform – Understanding legislative and policy frameworks that influence school governance and educational delivery.
• Instructional Leadership for Learning Excellence – Strengthening the principal’s role in promoting quality teaching, learning, and student achievement.
• Capacity Building and Professional Development – Focusing on mentorship, autonomy, and developing school-based professional learning communities.
• School Innovation and Improvement Strategies – Leveraging data, digital tools, and crisis response mechanisms to improve school performance and resilience.

Minister of Education Hon. Tozen Leokana highlighted that leadership in our schools must go beyond administration—it must ignite purpose, drive change, and place students at the heart of every decision. 

“As we gather for this Principals’ Conference, let us remember: the future of education in the Solomon Islands will not be built in conference halls alone, but in the daily, deliberate actions of our school leaders who choose to lead with courage, clarity, and commitment. 

“This is the leadership our children deserve, and the leadership we must now deliver,” he said.

The Minister also acknowledged the continuous support from Australia and New Zealand towards the development of the education sector in the country.

“Together, we will build upon the strong foundation laid by ESSP, ensuring that education continues to be a beacon of hope and a driver of progress in the Solomon Islands,” he said.

The three-day conference includes plenary sessions, interactive discussions with distinguished national and international speakers, and networking opportunities for educational leaders. 

The special event aims to empower school leaders and promote quality and inclusive education for all Solomon Islands children. 

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MEHRD statement