Overview
The Institute of Governance, Diplomacy and Development (IGDD) at the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has pioneered a groundbreaking Master of Business Administration (MBA) Programme, filling a crucial educational gap in the Solomon Islands. Established in late January 2023, IGDD is tasked with delivering the MBA postgraduate degree and high-level short courses tailored for senior officials in the public, state-owned entities (SOEs), and private sectors. Emphasizing quality education and dialogue, the Institute actively promotes good governance frameworks, entrepreneurship, and contributes to national public policy development through research and dialogue.
IGDD is currently in an exciting phase of development, focusing on strategic priorities such as building strong and sustainable partnerships with industry and corporate partners. The Institute aims to be a catalyst for ethical and sustainable business practices in the Solomon Islands, committing to responsible management principles, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
In collaboration with the Solomon Islands Government, SOEs, development partners, and industry, IGDD is working on developing a portfolio of short, relevant learning programs with ongoing accreditation processes by the Solomon Islands Tertiary Skills Authority. Seasoned industry experts serve as facilitators, staying updated with market developments to provide effective learning experiences.
SINU MBA Programme
SINU MBA Programme is tailored for busy professionals, offering flexibility around career, family, lifestyle, and relationships. Focused on general management rather than subject specialization, the programme addresses challenges faced by business leaders in a volatile world. With a rigorous academic and professional approach, the programme encourages cross-functional skills development, broadening career horizons, and leveraging work experiences for effective leadership in the global context.
Distinguishing itself from regional counterparts, SINU MBA Programme includes a mandatory dissertation component and stringent entry requirements. Upon successful completion of the two-year programme, students have pathway opportunities for doctoral studies. The programme's carefully selected blend of 14 units, including 2 electives and a dissertation, positions it as a game-changer in the field of business education.
Programmes
Dr. Elliot Mugamu
IGDD’s Founding Executive Director
Associate Professor Elliot Mugamu serves as the Institute's founding Executive Director in an acting capacity, reporting to the Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic. Dr Elliot holds a PhD in Management from the University of Lusaka in Zambia, a Master of Business Administration from Thames Valley University, United Kingdom, and a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Business Administration (joint major) from the University of the South Pacific in Fiji Islands. His undergraduate qualification underscores his deep understanding of Pacific Island Countries.
With a background as a Senior Student Tutor at the Institute of Pacific Studies, University of the South Pacific, Fiji, working under the late Professor Ron Crocombe, Dr Elliot brings a wealth of experience. He is a Fellow Member of the Chartered Governance and Accountancy Institute (Zimbabwe and UK), having met the educational requirements for membership with the New Zealand Division in 1982.
Hailing from Zimbabwe, Dr Elliot has seamlessly operated at the intersection of academic and business practice for over three decades. As an entrepreneur, executive coach, mentor, facilitator, consultant, advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and a non-executive director and Rotarian, Dr Mugamu has a demonstrated history in higher education. His skills encompass curriculum development and lecturing at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
At SINU, Dr. Elliot holds the position of Dean within the Faculty of Business and Tourism Studies and serves as a resource instructor in the Master of Education in Educational Leadership Programme. He brings to the institution a wealth of academic knowledge and practical experience, which he adeptly applies to enrich the learning environment. Prior to joining SINU, Dr. Elliot held the role of Adjunct Senior Lecturer at various esteemed universities in Zimbabwe, including the University of Zimbabwe, Catholic University of Zimbabwe, Midlands State University, and the National University of Science and Technology. With over two decades of experience as an MBA instructor, Dr. Elliot's expertise extends across a diverse spectrum of disciplines within the realm of business and management.