Community News

Pr. Viliame Rabuka is making a difference through his guitar ministry by sharing instrumental covers of cherished hymns and contemporary Christian songs online, all performed with a spirit of worship. Since April 1st, he has started offering guitar lessons and tutoring on campus, drawing interest from students worldwide at AIIAS. As a private student, this initiative not only supports his education but also provides financial assistance for his family. Pr. Rabuka is a Master of Public Health student with an emphasis in Church ministry. 

Guitar Ministry Videos: Click here!

Dr. Stone ministered to our community online from Fulton Adventist University College (FAUC) on March 26, 2025. During this mid-week prayer gathering, the FAUC principal urged the community to grasp the concept of God's renewed love. Dr. Stone also reminded students to keep in mind their responsibilities in the islands. 

In his heartfelt message, Dr. Stone elaborated on the significance of understanding God’s persistent love as a guiding force in our daily lives. He emphasized that this love is not merely an abstract idea but a tangible presence that can lead us to profound transformations. “As we navigate the challenges of our surroundings, it's essential to remember that we are never alone,” he stated, encouraging the students to draw strength from their faith.

On March 8 th, 2025, the South Pacific Division (SPD) Education Director, Dr. Elisapeci Manson, delivered a heartfelt reflection during the closing Sabbath via Zoom hosted by the AIIAS SPD community, highlighting the mission and unity of Adventist education throughout the SPD.

Speaking to the SPD community at AIIAS, the Education Director used the coconut as a meaningful metaphor to illustrate the shared identity and purpose within Adventist education. “The coconut may look different on the outside depending on where it grows,” the director shared, “but inside, it carries the same nourishing essence—just like our schools, united by faith, purpose, and a commitment to service.”

The metaphor powerfully captured the essence of the event: though participants were separated by geography, the virtual space became a reminder of their deep spiritual and educational connection. The coconut symbolized resilience, cultural richness, and a sense of being rooted—traits deeply woven into the fabric of Adventist education.

As the Zoom gathering came to a close, attendees were left inspired to continue fostering Christ-centered learning communities, carrying with them a renewed sense of belonging and purpose—connected by faith, like coconuts from the same tree.

Goeffery Karae took the Comprehensive Exam from March 19 to 20, 2025, completing three four-hour papers. He noted that the exam allows him to reflect on and apply his course knowledge to real-life scenarios. Karae stated, "It enables me to demonstrate my competence in leadership and governance, decision-making, interpersonal and communication skills, strategic thinking, technical expertise, professional ethics, and entrepreneurship." He is expected to graduate in May with a Masters in Business Administration with emphasis in Information Technology.

On February 5, Pastor Mike Sikuri, the General Secretary of the South Pacific Division (SPD), visited international students from the SPD at AIIAS in the Philippines. During the visit, he shared a meal with students from the Trans-Pacific Union Mission and the Papua New Guinea Union Mission, offering support for their academic and spiritual growth. Pastor Sikuri encouraged the students to leverage their education for the benefit of churches across the Pacific and emphasized their role in the global mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Currently, there are 19 SPD students at AIIAS, the largest group in the institution's history, with a notable achievement of 6-8 students set to graduate in May.

Pastor Jason Gulea from the Solomon Islands has successfully passed his comprehensive exams, marking a significant milestone in his academic journey. Despite health challenges that hindered his studies, he remained committed to his belief that God had brought him to AIIAS for a purpose. Each course he passed became a testimony of God's guidance, and he attributes his success to his faith, determination, and the support of his family and sponsors. The soft-spoken minister advises others preparing for exams to do their best while trusting God to handle the outcomes. He views this achievement as just one step in a longer journey and emphasizes the importance of gratitude for every success. Pr. Gulea is expected to graduate in May with an MBA emphasis in Church Administration. 

Pr. Jimmy Garae is presently enrolled at AIIAS to pursue a master's degree in ministry. He has been actively involved in pastoral work at the Mabuhay City Adventist Church and the Mabuhay City Phase 2 Adventist Church since January 2024, in addition to his academic pursuits. Additionally, since 2023, he has been visiting and serving inmates twice a month as part of his commitment to the Bulihan Prison Ministry. It is anticipated that Pr. Garae will graduate in May. 

Comprehensive exams (Comps.) are a period of unease that many students at AIIAS experience. Vonerik Liligeto sat for comps. exam late last year (2024). Though ample time was given to prepare, Liligeto said, 'You can never be prepared enough.' He said. 'All that can be said is to do your part, and the Lord will do His. In my case, I can only acknowledge His goodness and guidance throughout the examination period and ultimately helping me to pass.' Liligeto is in the writing stage, pursuing his PhD in Education. 

Pr. Viliame Ratumaiyale was elected to serve as the Vice President of the AIIAS Student Association for the 2024–2025 academic year. He considers it an honor to hold this position and is gaining valuable insights and experience in leadership through his service. He is expected to graduate this May (2025) with a Masters in Religion with emphasis on Adventist studies.