BY JUNELYN KELLY
Government has taken a major step towards transforming education with the launch of a new senior secondary curriculum reform.
The initiative was officially marked yesterday at Mokolo Building in Honiara during the opening of the Curriculum Development Writers Induction Workshop.
The workshop is part of the Government and Asian Development Bank partnership that funds the Senior Secondary Education Improvement Project and brings together selected curriculum writers and education specialists.
The Ministry of Education is leading the reform with technical support from Cognition Education Ltd.
Permanent Secretary Dr Franco Rodie officiated the event, joined by curriculum writers, education stakeholders and project partners.
The workshop signals the start of with a comprehensive effort to redesign the Years 10 to 12 curriculum to better prepare students for life, employment, and further education.
Mr Rodie said the reform aims to address the evolving needs of the country by equipping young people for a rapidly changing and interconnected world.
“This is not just about updating textbooks.
“It is about redesigning the future of our people and ensuring every learner is equipped to thrive,” he said.
Rodie said the new curriculum will integrate knowledge, skills, and values across all subjects, while introducing core competencies such as critical thinking, communication, digital literacy, and civic responsibility.
“A key feature of the reform is the inclusion of indigenous knowledge systems alongside modern academic content, ensuring students remain connected to their culture while adapting to global demands,” he said.
He said the curriculum will also place strong emphasis on climate resilience, reflecting the country’s vulnerability to environmental challenges.
He said a new subject, “Living Sustainably” will be introduced to promote environmental stewardship and disaster awareness.
In addition, the reform prioritises inclusion and student wellbeing. Programmes such as the Homeroom initiative will provide mentorship and emotional support, while efforts to promote gender equity aim to ensure equal opportunities for all learners.
The workshop concluded with the official declaration of its opening, marking the beginning of what officials describe as a long-term investment in the country’s human capital and future prosperity.
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