SINU NOT CLOSING
Quoting the Solomon Star newspaper – 28 October 2018
“THE Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has denied media claims that it will be closing soon, due to cash flow problems.
“A statement issue by the country’s prestigious tertiary institution has clarified the claims, stating that there is no such thing as ‘Closing the University’.
“It was stated that the operation of the institution is normal.
“This is to inform the general public that the report circulating in print and social media of late on plans to close down Solomon Islands National University is totally baseless, misleading and mischievous.
“University operations and business is going on as normal,” the statement has detailed.
“It goes on to add that Students and their families are assured that the University has no such plans.
“Students are encouraged to continue with their studies and preparations for upcoming final examinations.”
“In an earlier interview with the Solomon Star, acting vice chancellor Professor (Dr.) Prem Rai said that this is not the kind of action they would like to take.
“Our simple call is for the government and sponsors to pay up their dues and not for us to close down the university because this will disturb the students, Professor Prem said.
“A fortnight ago, Professor (Dr.) Prem has revealed in a press conference that the university is facing severe cash flow problem due to non-payments of tuition for this year totaling up to $40million.
“He described the situation as a ‘very serious one.’
“Of the total, Constituency Scholarships Fund through the Members of Parliament (MP) owed the University around $14m, Guadalcanal Province Education Authority $8m, private &self-sponsored students $6m and several government ministries owned $12.8m for the second Semester.
“Professor Prem said with the remaining three months from October to December the cash-strapped University desperately needs funds and if nothing is paid or settled it will affect the institution.
“This University is owed millions of dollars in non-payment of school fees,” the Vice chancellor acting said.
“It was stated that the deadline to settle outstanding fees is 31st of October 2018.
“Government is currently the main sponsor of students at SINU.
“Due its financial situation, the government has been unable to pay up its grant to the university in recent times.
“Meanwhile in the statement last night, the university has advised the media to check the facts with the Vice-Chancellor’s office, and desist from reporting unsubstantiated information.”
Copyright @ 2018, Solomon Star news.
