THE news of the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union’s (ABU’s) approval that Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) will be the host toits 2017 conference has been met with gratitude by the Prime Minister.
Manasseh Sogavare expressed his delight at the news when the Chairman of the SIBCLoyleyNgira paid a courtesy call on him on Monday morning to brief him on current and upcoming programmes and events of the national broadcaster including the ABU’s 2017 conference.
Mr Ngira said, “I’m pleased to inform you that Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Corporation Union has approved SIBC as the host to its 2017 conference.”
In welcoming the news, MrSovagare assured the SIBC Chair of his commitment as the Minister responsible for SIBC to ensure the government gives adequate funding to SIBC to prepare for the event.
“I am extremely pleased to hear that SIBC has been recognised by the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union in being accorded the honour to host its 2017 conference. “
Many international renowned broadcasting organizations are expected to attend the event in Honiara and the international media coverage on the event and of Solomon Islands generally is also anticipated to raise Solomon Islands profile internationally.
“The government will provide a seed grant to the national broadcaster to prepare for this event which is expected to bring in broadcasters from the Asia and Pacific region and beyond to our shores.This is also an excellent opportunity to showcase Solomon Islands as a tourist destination, and positive promotion of the country generally.”
Another issue discussed during the courtesy call was SIBC’s Television proposal which has already been submitted to the Prime Minister.
The Office of Prime Minister will submit a Cabinet Paper in September for Cabinet to approve the proposal.
OPMC will also seek budget funding under the Social Sector Reform Program in 2016, for purpose of engaging an international consultant to work with SIBC establish the TV broadcasting services during the new year.
The Prime Minister told the SIBC Chair that he is looking forward for the proposed introduction of television services by the national broadcaster next year.
He said the implementation of the Democratic Coalition for Change Government’s reform programs is expected to pick up pace and intensity in activities next year and is pleased that this media modality will further boost SIBC’s coverage of events and issues of national interest including the reform programmes’ implementation.
“Public promotion of these programs through TV broadcast gives people a live atmosphere, for people to better appreciate what their government is doing towards improving people’s lives, and appreciate the call for effective nation-building in general,” Mr Sogavare added.
The Chairman in turn applauded the PM’s Press Secretariat, for continuing to disseminate information about what the government is doing, to the media including SIBC for public awareness, information, and general education.
– PM’s Press Secretariat
