Strengthening Ties and Supporting Education

In February, Katie Drew, Executive Director of the Melanesian Mission UK (MMUK), visited the Solomon Islands to deepen ties with the Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACoM) and witness firsthand the impact of MMUK’s support across the region.

During her visit, Katie met with church leaders, members of the four Anglican religious orders, and representatives of the Mothers’ Union. Her time was spent listening, learning, and engaging with communities to better understand the joys and challenges they face in ministry, education, and community development.

A key highlight of the trip was Katie’s visit to St Stephen’s College, Pamua, where she toured the completed girls’ washrooms, funded by generous MMUK donations. She also viewed the ongoing construction of the new girls’ dormitory, which will provide much-needed accommodation for students once completed.

She also visited the Rural Training Centre (RTC) at Pamua, which provides vital vocational training to over 200 students in carpentry, mechanics, agriculture, tourism, and life skills. Despite limited resources, the RTC remains committed to welcoming all young people, even those without funds or formal enrolment.

However, urgent needs remain. The RTC is seeking support for a new boys’ dormitory, improved girls’ washroom facilities, agricultural tools, staff training, and a new poultry shed to enhance its self-sufficiency and training capacity.

At Selwyn College on Guadalcanal, Katie met with staff and conveyed greetings from Selwyn College, Cambridge. The Anglican Church’s college in the Solomon Islands is eager to renew links with UK schools to enrich learning opportunities and foster global Christian fellowship.

Katie also spent time with the Melanesian Brotherhood, learning about their preparations for their centenary celebrations in October 2025. The event is expected to draw over 10,000 Companions and supporters to Tabalia, including a small delegation from the UK, for a week of worship, fellowship, and celebration.

Katie’s visit powerfully reaffirmed MMUK’s mission to support the Anglican Church of Melanesia through prayer, people, and giving. It also highlighted the resilience, faith, and generosity of communities across the islands, and the vital role of partnership in advancing education, spiritual growth, and social development.