The Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) is progressing with the implementation of policy regarding the use of vernacular languages in schools and education.
Minister of Education Tozen Leokana highlighted this during the International Decade of Indigenous Languages Day on Friday 14th February 2025 at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Panatina Campus.
Amongst the guests attending the event were Permanent Secretary Dr. Franco Rodie, SIL Global Executive Director Dr. Michel Kenmogne, Pro-Vice Chancellor Corporate Dr. William Parairato and Dean of the Faculty of Education and Humanity Dr. Patricia Rodie.
Minister Hon. Leokana highlighted that his ministry in collaboration with education stakeholders’ have done some work to progress the Vernacular Education Policy and Inclusion Education Policy.
A legal framework that sets out the use of local languages in schools is provided in the Education Act 2023.
He made reference to Section 65, subsection (1) of the Act-Language of Instruction, which states that “the local vernacular, Pijin, English or sign language should be used individually or in combination to facilitate learning according to the needs of the students”.
He also made reference to subsection (2) of the Act, which stipulates that “a teacher must endeavour to use English as the principal language of instruction from the year level of primary education (or, it the Regulations prescribe some other year level, from year level onwards)’’.
He said this legal framework set the use of local language in our education system to facilitate teaching and learning.
The Minister reiterates that his ministry regards language as the foundation of learning.
“In fact, we in the ministry regard language as the vessel through which knowledge is transmitted, culture is preserved and identities are strengthened. The decision to integrate our rich linguistic heritage into the education system is not only a strategic mover for academic success but also profound affirmation of who we are as a people,” Minister Leokana said.
He stated that for far too long, language has been a barrier to education rather than a bridge. Many young learners begin their schooling by exposing to English, as a medium of instruction in classrooms – a language unfamiliar to them, making the transition into formal education challenging.
He said MEHRD’s goal is to provide students with a strong foundation for literacy, comprehension and critical thinking.
The Vernacular Education Policy and Inclusion Education Policy together ensures that students can grasp fundamental concepts in language they are able to speak and comfortable with before transitioning into English and other subjects.
Furthermore, these policies enforce the use of vernacular languages as the medium of instruction from Early Childhood Education to the Primary Preparation Year and into Primary Education.
The event was organized by the Solomon Islands Translation Advisory Group (SITAG) and co-hosted by SINU.
- MEHRD
