The Kukum Valley Seventh-day Adventist Primary and High School has marked a significant milestone with the official naming and dedication of the Alex Currie Multipurpose Centre.
This new facility, a 630-square-metre structure, stands as a testament to the dedication and generosity of Dr Alex Currie, whose lifelong commitment to Adventist education has transformed countless lives across the South Pacific, and particularly, the Solomon Islands.
The dedication plaque, unveiled on March 28 before an audience of students, teachers and community members, reads: “Dedicated in honour of Dr Alex Currie, whose vision and commitment enriched our Kukum Valley SDA School Community. To God be the glory.”
A vision brought to life
The Alex Currie Multipurpose Centre was completed under the stewardship of former Kukum Valley Adventist High School principal Gibson Apusae, during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The facility was made possible through the Solomon Islands Educational Support Group, led by Dr Currie and Pastor Ray Eaton, who worked tirelessly to secure building materials and funding.
The centre will serve as a hub for education, community gatherings and spiritual development, providing a much-needed space for the school’s 802 students—558 in the primary school and 244 in the high school—as well as the 28 teachers and staff who serve them.
Speaking at the dedication, Kukum Valley Adventist High School principal Charles Olita’a reflected on the significance of the new facility.
“The Alex Currie Multipurpose Centre is more than a structure—it embodies vision, commitment and God’s providence working through individuals and community collaboration,” he said. “It serves as a symbol of opportunity for our students, offering a space where learning, celebrations and fellowship can thrive. This centre reflects the generosity, faith and dedication of those who believe in education’s transformative power. Its influence will resonate for generations, enriching both the school and the wider community.”
Dr Alex Currie: a life of service and generosity
Dr Alex Currie, a retired minister, educator and administrator, has served the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the South Pacific Division for 53 years. His passion for Adventist education and mission work has left an indelible mark, particularly in the Solomon Islands, where he has worked tirelessly to enhance schools, provide resources and inspire young minds.
As joint leader of the Solomon Islands Educational Support Group, Dr Currie has overseen the shipment of 30 containers carrying over 520 tonnes of supplies to schools in the region within the last three years alone. Since its inception, the initiative has contributed more than A$4.5 million in educational resources, constructing similar halls at Burns Creek Primary and High School, Tenakoga Adventist College, Bekabeka Community High School, Puzivai High School and Atoifi Hospital. Infrastructure at other schools such as Kukudu Adventist College and Jones Missionary College has also been improved. In addition, the group has provided more than 6000 chairs and nearly 2000 desks which have been critical in helping schools with their enrolment expansion.
A heartfelt acceptance
In his acceptance speech, Dr Currie expressed his deep gratitude and reaffirmed his commitment to the power of education: “I talk to you today deeply humbled and profoundly grateful for the incredible honour you are bestowing on me and my family. To have this building—a place of learning, growth and opportunity—carry my name is something I never could have imagined when I first set foot in the Solomon Islands in 1966.”
Emphasising the transformative power of education, he encouraged students to seize every opportunity: “Education is the foundation upon which you will build a bright future. This building is not just made of steel and cement—it is made of dreams, ambitions and the belief that knowledge has the power to transform lives. Step into life with courage, embrace every opportunity and never stop learning.”
He concluded with a promise to continue his support for young Solomon Islanders: “As I accept this honour today, I do so not just with gratitude but with a promise to continue supporting and believing in the incredible potential of young Solomon Island minds. Together, let’s keep building a future filled with hope, knowledge and endless possibilities. May God bless you all and enrich your lives with good education, along with faith, hope and love.”
Tributes from colleagues and friends
Dr Currie’s lifelong dedication has inspired many, including his close collaborator, Pastor Ray Eaton, co-leader of the Solomon Islands Educational Support Group. “Dr Alex Currie is small in stature but a giant in ideas, efficiency, enthusiasm and vision,” Pastor Eaton said. “He and his wife, Bev, saw the great potential of Solomon Island students and pledged in retirement to do all they could to assist. Alex has spent countless days sourcing, loading and financing Solomon Island projects. The Kukum School Multipurpose Centre is a testament to his passion and commitment.”
Dr Ken Long, who has worked alongside Dr Currie, described the naming of the centre as a well-deserved honour: “Dr Alex Currie is an inspirational leader whose generosity and love for Adventist education in the Solomons is contagious. He raises funds for the purchase and transport of containers, co-ordinates volunteers for packing and arranges their shipment to the Solomons. The naming of the Alex Currie Multipurpose Centre is a fitting tribute to his extraordinary contribution.”
