Travel Course Cleared For Take-Off
The Solomon Islands National University (SINU) is preparing to roll out new training in travel management and hotel and restaurant reservations. Under the Solomon Islands – Australia partnership, this initiative has been developed to respond to a shortage of skilled personnel in the country’s growing tourism industry.
Solomon Airlines, a key stakeholder in this initiative, has provided technical support on industry-standard software and is offering internship placements.
Australian High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, welcomed the new partnership.
“Australia is Solomon Islands’ nambawan tourism partner and this new training is another step in building local expertise to create more local jobs for young Solomon Islanders in the country’s growing tourism sector,” the High Commissioner said.
The training will consist of 6–9 months of classroom instruction, followed by the opportunity for a 3–6-month internship at Solomon Airlines, with the airline potentially hiring select students each year.
John Wopereis, Manager Commercial at Solomon Airlines, highlighted the importance of the initiative.
“We are pleased to support Australia and SINU to strengthen the country’s local talent pool,” said Mr Wopereis,
“This program will help us prioritise local hiring and reduce reliance on outsourcing, while also creating a strong foundation for Solomon Islands’ future tourism growth.”
Australia’s support includes the purchase of essential equipment and the provision of a trainer to assist SINU’s School of Tourism and Hospitality Management to incorporate travel management into their curriculum. Students will gain technical training in hotel and restaurant reservations, using Amadeus and other industry-standard platforms.
Ms Emarlyn Boka, the Head of School of Tourism and Hospitality Management at SINU said the course will allow SINU to better equip its students for employment in the tourism and travel sector.
“We look forward to seeing graduates thrive through this course and make significant contributions to the travel industry.”
The initiative reflects a commitment from all parties to building the capacity of the Solomon Islands’ workforce and to enhance the country’s tourism industry, with long-term benefits expected for both the travel and hospitality sector.
Source: Australia High Commission, Solomon Islands
