Australia partners with Smart Technology for disability training in Solomon Islands

Australia has established a partnership with Honiara-based Smart Technology to provide specialized mobile phone repair training for ten hearing-impaired Solomon Islanders. Developed in collaboration with the National Disability Forum Solomon Islands, the training model is specifically designed to accommodate deaf and hearing-impaired participants.

Smart Technology founder Roylex Sitana noted that the initiative aims to leverage the patience and attention to detail inherent in hearing-impaired individuals to help them secure employment or launch their own businesses. Upon completion, some participants may partner with Smart Technology, while others will receive tools, mentoring, and support to establish independent repair services.

Australian High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, stated that the partnership creates inclusive pathways into a growing industry and highlights how Indigenous businesses can serve as inclusive employers, helping to overcome significant barriers to employment faced by people with disabilities.