4 Jul 2005

Solomons introduces civic education programme

5:47 am on 4 July 2005

The Solomon Islands government this month launches a civic education programme that may eventually become a permanent part of the school curriculum.

NGOs and the Electoral Commission, supported by aid donors, are working to raise voter awareness ahead of the national election next year.

The permanent secretary in the department of home affairs, Ruth Liloqula, says the government has a two-pronged appraoch.

It will be trying to increase voter turnout and also encouraging people to think how their choice of leaders impacts on the quality of government.

Ms Liloqula says civics education could become a permanent element of the school curriculum.

"We need to work and we need to empower these institutions so they can sustain the project after it is completed - after the funding has gone. I am working towards that.."