Southern Cross University team wraps up four-week SINIS placement
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) yesterday farewelled a delegation of Southern Cross University (SCU) students after they successfully completed a four-week New Colombo Plan placement in Solomon Islands.
This follows the SCU delegation’s initial reception at Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) four weeks ago as part of a broader New Colombo Plan initiative, which saw more than 70 students and staff from Australian universities selecting the institute as a host organisation—highlighting its growing reputation as a regional hub for sports education and athlete development.
A statement from SINIS yesterday said that over the past month, visiting staff and students from SCU, studying Exercise and Sport Science and Clinical Exercise Physiology, worked closely with SINIS personnel across key performance areas including strength and conditioning, athlete wellbeing and rehabilitation.
The placement formed part of the New Colombo Plan programme supported by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
During their stay, the SCU team engaged in a range of collaborative learning activities with SINIS programmes.
“The Talent Identification Development Department led a joint outreach visit to the White River community, while students also completed separate observational visits to the National Referral Hospital as part of their academic schedule,” the statement from SINIS said.
Over the weekend, the delegation travelled to Central Islands Province to further experience the local culture and environment.
Speaking during the farewell, SINIS Performance Manager for Portfolio One (Combat and Weight Sports), Zanetana Djokovic acknowledged the collaboration and shared learning achieved throughout the visit.
“Thank you for visiting us, for your input, your questions and your involvement with SINIS staff and our programmes.
“I understand there were challenges during your stay, but we adapted and overcame them together. That reflects what SINIS is about—adapting and overcoming the many challenges we face here in Solomon Islands,” Djokovic said.
She also acknowledged the role of SCU leadership in guiding the initiative and supporting both students and SINIS staff.
“I also want to thank SCU team leaders Dr Jena Buchan and Dr Jodie Cochrane Wilkie for guiding the process that brought you here and for the support given to both students and our staff. Your presence has been very helpful to us.
“It has been a two-way learning experience—we have learnt from you, and I am sure you have learnt from us as well. We are grateful for the opportunity and wish you all the best in your studies.
“Our doors are always open should you wish to return, and we wish you safe travels home this weekend,” she said.
On behalf of the visiting group, Bachelor of Exercise and Physiological Science student, Jeremy Salter expressed appreciation for the opportunity and hospitality extended during their time in Solomon Islands.
“Thank you so much for having us. We had a fantastic time—the weeks really flew by. We have learnt a lot through our involvement in activities and we truly appreciate your hospitality. The culture here has been amazing and we are very grateful for the opportunity,” Salter said.
The SCU delegation is expected to return to Australia this Sunday, with the partnership continuing to strengthen international collaboration, support local capacity building and promote valuable knowledge exchange between visiting students and Solomon Islands athletes.
Photo: Supplied
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