THE Solomon Islands National University (SINU) Vice Chancellor (VC), Professor Transform Aqorau has thanked the National Hosting Authority (NHA) for including the university as a recipient of the enduring legacy of the 17th Pacific Games.
Dr Aqorau was speaking at the official handing over of three of the 20 Tata buses used during the Pacific Games to SINU on Wednesday.
The buses donated by the Government of the Republic of India for the transportation of athletes during the 17th Pacific Games in Honiara were handed over to the SINU VC by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.
Each of the Tata buses has a carrying capacity of 31 passengers and is equipped with hand handles to accommodate additional passengers.
The donation of buses to 11 different institutions, including SINU, is seen as an enduring legacy of the benefits of the Pacific Games. SINU is the largest beneficiary of the games as it witnessed an investment worth $200 million in its infrastructure and now its ownership of three of the 20 Tata buses.
Dr Aqorau, at the official handing over of the buses, expressed his gratitude and highlighted the impact the donated buses will have on the university community.
“We are deeply honoured and grateful to receive these Tata buses, which will significantly enhance the mobility and accessibility for both our staff and students across our three campuses. This generous contribution from the Government of India, facilitated by the Solomon Islands Government and the National Hosting Authority, exemplifies the lasting positive impact of the Pacific Games.
“These buses will not only improve our daily operations but also foster a greater sense of unity and convenience within our university community. On behalf of SINU, I extend my heartfelt thanks to the National Hosting Authority for their unwavering support and for including us in the enduring legacy of the Pacific Games.
“SINU continues to strive towards excellence in education and development and the addition of these buses marks another milestone in its journey towards becoming an internationally recognized institution,” Dr Aqorau added.
By FLOYD TERRY JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara