Solomon Islands

May 31, 2025

The India - Solomon Islands Centre for Excellence in Information Technology (IS-CEIT) at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) recently celebrated a major milestone: its first-ever graduation ceremony. This momentous occasion, held at the Panatina Campus Pavilion, honored 38 graduates who received certifications in three crucial ICT fields: Information Technology, Data Analysis, and Data Communication & Networking.

IS-CEIT was established with financial support from the Government of India, with C-DAC Delhi responsible for its setup. This collaboration highlights a strong commitment to academic achievement and international partnership between India and the Solomon Islands in the vital area of information technology.

The ceremony kicked off with a warm welcome address from Mr. Pappu Kapgate, the Centre Head of IS-CEIT (deputed by C-DAC Delhi). He shared his pride in the students' accomplishments and highlighted the Centre's increasing influence in the Pacific region.

The keynote address was delivered by Associate Professor, Dr. Eric Katovai, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic), who hailed the event as a "truly historic occasion" for SINU and the region. He emphasized the transformative role of CEIT in building digital capacity and outlined SINU's future plans to integrate CEIT into the Faculty of Science and Technology, paving the way for diploma, bachelor's, and master's programs in IT.

"The CEIT is more than a building filled with computers and smart boards - it is a powerful symbol of opportunity," Dr. Katovai remarked. "Today's qualification is both a reward and a responsibility - to drive innovation and build stronger communities."

A special guest at the event, Mr. Ravinder Nath, H.E. Deputy High Commissioner of India to the Solomon Islands, commended the graduates and reaffirmed India's enduring commitment to regional development through the ITEC initiative.

"CEIT stands as a beacon of knowledge and a symbol of the deepening ties between India and the Solomon Islands," H.E. Nath stated. "The digital skills acquired here will empower local talent and foster resilience in the face of global challenges."

A standout graduate, Ms. Hilda Kalte Tate of Temotu Province, currently serving in the Solomon Islands Government ICT Services, reflected on her experience:

"This course has deepened my understanding of ICT. I urge young Solomon Islanders to embrace digital education-CEIT offers skills that truly align with the workforce needs of today."

The event featured certificate presentations by dignitaries, a valedictory speech by a student representative, and concluded with a group photo and a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Master of Ceremony, Mr. Peter Maclean Qora along with Mr. Gaurav Singh, Trainer, IS-CEIT from C-DAC Delhi.

As the ceremony concluded, filled with pride, emotion, and a forward-looking vision, the IS-CEIT reaffirmed its dedication to fostering digital excellence in the Pacific. Through strong bilateral cooperation and a mission-driven approach, the Centre continues to bridge the digital divide, one graduate at a time.