Teachers and students of Kwikila Secondary School in the Central Province witnessed a new era after 63 years in the life of the school – the launching of a new Information Communication and Technology Learning Centre facilitated by NICTA.
Kwikila Secondary has over a thousand students, and is the first school in the Central Province that is now well equipped with ICT services after the launch last week.
The secondary school was graced with the presence of the Information Communications & Technology Minister Timothy Masiu who was on ground for the grand launch of the ICT lab in front of teachers, students and the community on Thursday.
Minister Masiu said the Prime Minister himself made a profound statement: “We must ensure no child is left behind in education.
Every PNG child must be educated; it is their right.” He said we must utilize digital technology to educate our children.
“I am happy we are finally here to launch this very important infrastructure and thank you for a wonderful welcome,” said Minister Masiu.
Mr Masiu said the launch of the ICT lab was significant for the students, staff and surrounding communities because utilizing digital technology has finally become a reality for them.
“The use of ICT today is important. ICT permeates all aspects of life, providing newer, better and quicker ways for our people to interact, network, seek help, gain access to information, and learn,” said Masiu.
He said besides its presence everywhere, Information and Communication Technology has an immense economic significance.
Minister Masiu assured the student body that the presence of internet and an E-library for Kwikila Secondary School makes available to students numerous research material and teaching content that would not otherwise be available in a physical school library.
“Through the internet the school will be up to date with the latest news and information.”
Minister Masiu said the Department of ICT and NICTA has strategic plans to extend the ICT service to schools, health facilities, districts and provincial administration to have better access particularly in the rural areas.
The Minister also paid special respects to a senior officer with NICTA who was the brains behind this project that had passed on earlier on this month.