A LOT of Solomon Islanders would be able to study in Australia if the Australian Government allows them to study on local student fees instead of the prohibitively expensive international student fees.
Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Australia, His Excellency Robert Sisilo highlighted in an interview with Solomon Star as many Solomon Islanders continue to study in Australia under scholarships from both the Australian Government and Solomon Islands Government (SIG).
He said in 2021, Solomon Islands had 40 students studying at various universities across Australia.14 were funded by Australia and the remainder by Solomon Islands Government.
And for these scholarship opportunities provided by the Australian Government, High Commissioner Sisilo said he is grateful.
However, he said his wish is for more Solomon Islanders to undertake their studies in Australia.
“Many more [Solomon Islanders] would be here as self-sponsored students if only they pay local tuition fees instead of the prohibitively expensive international student fees,” the High Commissioner added.
High Commissioner Sisilo also wants to see more assistance from the Australian Government to the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) in the form of scholarships for Solomon Islanders to study at the country’s premier educational institution and funding support towards infrastructure development at the university and more.
He also reiterated the call by the Caretaker Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Jeremiah Manele for reciprocal visa waiver for Solomon Islanders from Australia.
“I also called for reciprocal visa waiver for Solomon Islanders on arrival in Australia, otherwise, we might be a Pacific family but only for certain things.
“Achieving such freedom of movement would be a significant indicator of our acceptance as part of a broader Pacific family,” High Commissioner Sisilo underscored.
High Commissioner Sisilo had recently hosted a welcome reception for six Solomon Islands students studying at universities around the Australian National Capital Territory Canberra.