LASI, CAUSE II Literacy Graduates Step Forward with New Confidence

HONIARA, Solomon Islands — IN Mataniko and Kwaio Valley (Honiara), 63 learners have completed eight weeks of literacy classes, gaining skills that are opening doors to greater confidence, community participation and future opportunities. For some, it was their first experience in a classroom. For others, it was a long-awaited opportunity to learn to read and write.

By the end of September, a total 63 learners graduated from literacy classes in Mataniko and Kwaio Valley, marking an important step towards greater confidence, community participation and access to future opportunities.

Delivered through a partnership between the Literacy Association of Solomon Islands (LASI) and the CAUSE II Project, the eight-week programme supports young people and adults to develop foundational literacy skills and prepare for further training.

In Mataniko, 30 learners graduated on 18 September, celebrated by around 80 community members, church representatives and local leaders. Community leaders described the achievement as significant, noting that previous literacy programmes had struggled to continue due to limited resources and support for teachers.

Eleven days later, 33 learners graduated at Pamphylia SSEC Church in Kwaio Valley. Women accounted for 35 of the 38 people who initially registered for the classes.

For many women, the programme provided an opportunity to learn skills they had missed out on during childhood. Community members highlighted how learning to read and write had helped women and young mothers build confidence, express their views and participate more actively in church and community activities.

The programme was supported by LASI through teacher training, classroom visits and monitoring to help ensure learning met the expected standards. LASI also acknowledged CAUSE II and the World Bank for supporting the initiative.

Together, the two communities recorded 72 initial registrations, with 63 learners completing their classes and receiving certificates.

For these graduates, the achievement goes beyond a certificate. It represents a foundation for lifelong learning, greater participation in community life and the confidence to pursue new opportunities.

Implemented by the Solomon Islands Government, the CAUSE II Project is supported by the World Bank and the Australian Government through the PNG and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility Multi-Donor Trust Fund.

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