The University of the South Pacific (USP) completed a four-day workshop in September at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) as part of the “Pacific Digital Democracy Initiative” (PDDI) project.
Funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and led by USP, the initiative aimed to strengthen digitalisation efforts in Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) through a human rights-based approach.
The workshop consisted of 37 participants from various government ministries across the Solomon Islands to enhance their skills and knowledge in digital governance.
Led by Professor Sushil Kumar, Director Research at USP, along with Dr Subhash Appanna, Margret Kensen, and Shailin Mala, the workshop was designed to support the Solomon Islands in advancing its digitalisation strategies and strengthening state-society relations.
Honourable John Tuhaika Jr, Minister for Public Service, opened the workshop with remarks emphasising the programme’s focus on improving citizen engagement, access to information, and government accountability through digital technologies.
He highlighted the initiative’s role in addressing the Solomon Islands’ unique challenges, including cultural diversity and geographic dispersion, by promoting inclusive digital solutions that respect privacy and freedom of expression.
Deputy Resident Representative for the Solomon Islands, Dr Raluca Eddon stressed the workshop’s importance in fostering a more inclusive and effective digital landscape. She noted that digital transformation was not only about technology but about improving people’s lives and ensuring no one is left behind in this rapidly evolving digital world.
Professor Sushil Kumar, Project Leader of the PDDI project, reaffirmed the workshop’s goal to support Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and FSM in advancing digitalisation while focusing on human rights. The training will equip government and civil society leaders with the tools to deepen their understanding and commitment to digital rights and digital development priorities of the Solomon Islands.
SINU Director of Research, Dr Hugo Bugoro emphasised the significance of tailoring digital solutions to the region’s unique needs. He highlighted the workshop’s potential to develop innovative strategies and overcome barriers to digital democracy, ensuring every voice is heard and valued.
Dr Billy Fitoo, USP Solomon Islands Campus Director, described the workshop as a critical step in leveraging digital technology to enhance democratic processes. He emphasised that the insights and strategies developed will help reach remote communities, engage citizens innovatively, and safeguard democratic institutions.
The four-day workshop focused on building participants’ capacities to design and implement people-centred, gender-sensitive, and rights-based digitalisation initiatives. It offered a platform for sharing regional and global best practices, aiming to enhance digital governance and create value for society. By fostering collaboration and promoting innovation, the workshop aimed to establish a supportive environment for digital governance in the Solomon Islands, laying a strong foundation for future initiatives and advancing digital democracy across the Pacific.
For any information on the UNDP-Funded PDDI project, contact Shailin Mala, Innovation & Grants Development Coordinator, USP Research Office at shailin.mala@usp.ac.fj and/or Qaayenaat Ali, Project Officer, PDDI project at qaayenaat.ali@usp.ac.fj.
