Form six (Year 12) Science students from St. Joseph’s Tenaru Secondary School have learnt about career pathways in renewable energy, engineering, and environmental science during a visit to the Tina River Hydropower site.
Organised by Tina Hydropower Development Project Office, the tour took students to the dam construction site and powerhouse to meet with technical experts.
Students engaged in discussions and gained hands-on exposure to Solomon Islands’ biggest renewable energy project, which is being supported by Australia.
Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said the Tina River Hydropower Project would create jobs, grow the economy, reduce pollution and lower the price of power.
“Australia is investing SBD330 million in Solomon Islands first hydropower scheme, making it Australia’s largest climate finance investment in the Pacific.
“The Tina River Hydropower Development Project will deliver more reliable and affordable power for households, government and businesses in Honiara.”
Year 12 Science students, Celestine and Michlia said the visit had inspired them to think about their future career paths.
“I’ve learned about various fields, and it has motivated me to work hard to achieve my goals,” said Celestine.
Michlia said the visit had inspired her to explore technology and engineering.
Community Sharing Benefit Project’s Community Liaison Officer, Titus Siapu said they would be conducting more visits in the future to give senior students the chance to connect with real-world applications of science, engineering, and environmental science.
The Tina River Hydropower Project is a nationally significant project that will provide reliable, sustainable energy in Solomon Islands.
The project will lower Solomon Islands exposure to increasing global fuel prices, and supporting reaching greenhouse gas emission targets under the Paris Agreement.
The Tina River Hydropower Development Project is being implemented by the Solomon Islands Government with financing and support from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the Asian Development Bank, the Government of Australia, the Green Climate Fund, Korea EX-IM Economic Development Cooperation Fund, and the World Bank.
Australia, through the Australia Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific is also supporting the construction of a 22 km transmission line to connect the hydropower site to Honiara’s electricity grid.
– AHC
