BY JOY OFASIA
For Emarlyn Marade Hiele from Isabel Province, graduating with a Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Teaching and Learning (GCHETL) from University of Technology Sydney, Australia in 2026 was more than just receiving another qualification — it was the fulfillment of a personal and professional milestone shaped by perseverance, sacrifice, and faith.
At 36 years old, Emarlyn is a wife, mother, academic, and leader who continues to pursue excellence in education.
She previously earned a Bachelor of Arts in Tourism and Hospitality from University of the South Pacific, Fiji in 2014 and later completed a Master’s degree in Tourism Studies from Wakayama University, Japan in 2019.
Reflecting on her graduation day, Emarlyn described the moment as both emotional and rewarding.
“Walking across the stage during the graduation ceremony was a truly special and memorable experience. It marked an important milestone in my personal and professional journey,” she said.
Emarlyn was among the first cohort of 23 academic staff from Solomon Islands National University selected from various faculties to undertake the program.
The opportunity was sponsored by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
As an academic and Head of School for Tourism and Hospitality, Emarlyn believed it was important to strengthen not only her subject expertise but also her teaching practice.
“While I already had qualifications in tourism, this program strengthened my teaching practices and enhanced my ability to better support and engage my students,” she explained.
Completing the program was far from easy.
During her studies, Emarlyn balanced multiple responsibilities working fulltime as an academic and school head while caring for her family, all while her husband was working overseas.
Despite the challenges, she credits her success to the support she received from colleagues, lecturers, facilitators, family members, and her faith in God.
Throughout the program, Emarlyn gained valuable insights into curriculum design, inclusive teaching approaches, student engagement, assessment development, reflective teaching, and modern learning practices, including the responsible use of AI in education.
For her one lesson stood out strongly for her, “Being knowledgeable in a subject does not automatically make someone an effective teacher.”
Emarlyn now hopes to apply her new knowledge and skills to strengthen academic programs within the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management at SINU and contribute meaningfully to higher education development in the Solomon Islands.
She encourages women and girls out there and also hopes her journey will inspire others, especially women, to pursue further education despite challenges.
“Be patient, stay committed, and always do your best without giving up. Trust God in everything you do. With determination, support, and faith, you can achieve your goals,” Emarlyn encouraged.
