Minister for Rural and Economic Development and Member for Kandrian Gloucester, Joseph Lelang, has presented cheques totalling nearly K3 million for the construction of new classrooms across the district, in West New Britain. This marks another key milestone in his long-standing commitment to improving education in the electorate. Minister Lelang also highlighted the district's student scholarship scheme, which has been in operation continuously since 2013. Over K26 million has been invested into the program over the past 13 years, benefitting more than 5,000 students. Many recipients now work in government and private sectors, supporting their families and communities. “This year alone we sponsored around 230 students at a cost of K2.17 million.” “We are one of the few government agencies that truly invests in education. We do not just talk about it—we act on it.” Lelang emphasized the government's recent education reforms, which allow Grade 10 students to continue to Grades 11 and 12, as a clear sign that greater investment in school infrastructure is now vital. As part of this initiative, six new classroom buildings will be constructed across various schools in the district. These include two double classrooms and four four-in-one buildings, each featuring two classrooms on both the ground and upper floors. The four-in-one classrooms will be built at Murian Primary, Gilnit Primary, Kilenge Primary, and Gloucester Primary, across four different Local Level Governments (LLGs). Additionally, two-in-one classrooms have been funded for Sasavoru Primary, Rilmen Elementary, Wasum Elementary, and Pomugu Primary in the Kandrian Inland LLG. He stated that school infrastructure was one of their top priorities, as Kandrian Gloucester currently serves over 30,000 students across 206 schools but has only one secondary school, six high schools, and one vocational school. “We have already invested K4.5 million in the vocational school at Sagsag, Ward 3, in partnership with the Anglican Church. Two million kina has already been released.” Local construction companies, FM Building and Maintenance Construction Ltd and Tuanga Building and Construction, have been given the contracts. FM Project Manager Jerry Sete confirmed work to begin this Friday. “We will visit project sites, talk to community leaders, and begin awareness so nearby communities are informed and involved.” FM Construction is known for repairing 66 police houses across Kimbe, Talasea, and Bialla. Operations Manager Esther Maris reassured the public of the project’s completion within deadline. “We are proud to be part of this project and we will complete the work on time and with quality.” Meanwhile, Kandrian Coastal LLG President Allan Klosio praised the Minister’s efforts, noting his consistent support since 2013. “This latest project will really help our students learn in better classrooms.” He acknowledged logistical challenges, with 80 percent of roads needing upgrades, but expressed confidence in the project’s delivery. Minister Lelang concluded by reaffirming his commitment to further investments. “We are not stopping here. We will continue to support other LLGs as well.” “Our students deserve the best and I will continue working to make that happen.”