Local horticulture graduates last week farewelled an Australian volunteer after spending 18 months providing training to local environmental and beautification students.
During the graduation ceremony on Friday at the Solo environment and beautification education center in Ranadi, east Honiara Dan Austin was farewelled.
Betty Mara a level three students said they were proud to have received such a training from a person like Mr Austin who has high qualification.
She said Mr Austin was helpful by teaching them how to do important things like planting, showing how to prune and other skill of landscaping.
Ms Mara said horticulture is very important in the country for beautification, decoration to attract visitors from other countries when coming in Solomon Island.
She said from what they have learnt from the volunteer, they will work improve the beauty of Honiara town as well as their communities.
Another level three (3) student Philip Taukimoana said they have learned a lot from their overseas friend.
“On behalf of the students I wish to thank the volunteer for the time spent in the country to training us with the skills and knowledge.”
Mr Austin in response said he was happy to be of help to the local students during the training and help out in beautifying Honiara city.
He said he was happy to train people who are interested in horticulture.
He said knowledge of horticulture is very important to beautify homes and the city.
Meanwhile the chairperson of the Solo environment and beautification Keithie Saunders congratulated the graduating students and urged them to put their skills and knowledge to work.
“Its time to beautify our city and communities as you have the qualification to do so,” Ms Saunders said.
She thanked the volunteer for spending time in the country to offer trainings to the students.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
