News
SMEC
Partners
with
Greenergy
Pacific
to
Launch
Environmental
Education
Hub
in
Solomon
Islands
The Solomon Islands is one of the most disaster-prone nations globally, ranked second for overall risk exposure. Coastal communities – where over 60% of the population resides – face mounting threats from rising sea levels, frequent cyclones and saltwater intrusion.

In remote provinces like Temotu, these environmental pressures are compounded by limited access to technology and education. Most schools still rely on chalk-and-blackboard teaching, and internet connectivity remains below 50%, leaving students disconnected from modern learning tools and global knowledge.

 

Temotu’s youth face significant barriers to understanding climate change and environmental stewardship. Without access to digital tools or modern learning spaces, students are ill-equipped to respond to the challenges affecting their communities. The lack of infrastructure and resources limits their ability to participate in broader climate resilience efforts and future employment opportunities.
 

 

 

Bold Initiative for Change

To address these challenges, SMEC has partnered with Greenergy Pacific, a local NGO, to establish the Environmental Education Hub (EEH) at Lata Community High School in Temotu Province. The initiative transforms the existing computer lab into a solar-powered, internet-connected learning space dedicated to environmental awareness, digital literacy and leadership development.

 

The EEH will serve as a permanent resource for students and youths, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to lead local conservation efforts and contribute to climate adaptation strategies.

 

A donation handover ceremony was held at SMEC’s office in Honiara to mark our financial contribution to Greenergy Pacific. Sharon Inone, Founder & CEO of Greenergy Pacific, joined SMEC’s Benjamin Aitoroi and Hilda Poloso to celebrate the partnership and shared commitment to community empowerment.

 

Empowering the Next Generation

In its first year, the EEH is expected to benefit over 300 students and youths in Temotu Province. These young leaders will gain access to digital education, environmental training and leadership opportunities – laying the foundation for long-term resilience and sustainable development.
 

This project aligns perfectly with our CSR priorities. By investing in education and community resilience, we’re helping young people in Temotu build the skills they need to thrive in a changing world.
— Libby Paholski, Chair of SMEC’s SEA & Pacific CSR Committee

Community-Led Collaboration

The EEH project is built on strong local partnerships. Key stakeholders include Lata Community High School, the Temotu Provincial Government, Litehaus International (technology supplier) and the Temotu Education Division. Local communities in play a central role in supporting and sustaining the initiative, with in-person consultations ensuring grassroots engagement and ownership.

Sustainable Impact for the Future

Designed for long-term sustainability, the EEH will continue operating beyond its initial implementation phase. Monitoring and evaluation will ensure meaningful outcomes, with hundreds of students and youths expected to benefit annually. The hub will remain a permanent resource for education, empowerment, and environmental stewardship.

SMEC and Greenergy Pacific are proud to champion this initiative, reaffirming their commitment to inclusive development and the transformative power of education in the Solomon Islands.

This initiative is deeply personal to me. Growing up in Temotu, I saw firsthand how limited access to education and technology can hold back entire communities. The Environmental Education Hub is our way of unlocking opportunity, giving young people the tools to protect their environment and shape their future.
— Sharon Inone, Founder & CEO Greenergy Pacific