A new elementary classroom has inspired Simberi island students to dream big.
Early learners at Munun Elementary School on the northeast coast of Simberi in New Ireland have increased their appetite for knowledge and the desire for good careers since their new classroom was opened early this year.
Co-funded by St Barbara, operator of Simberi gold mine, and the Simberi Mining Area Landowner Association (SMAA), the new classroom is perched on a picturesque hill at Munun village overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Two students, in elementary 2 are excited to complete the year and enrol at Simberi Primary School in 2023 to start grade 3. Florence Magien and Kelvin Tonny say the new classroom and facilities have inspired them to turn up for school on time every school day and participate actively in class.
Ten-year-old Florence, from Munun village, says English is her favourite subject and she wants to be a doctor one day.
“I know I have to work hard if I want to be a doctor,” said Florence.
“But I love my new school. I am very happy to learn here.”
Kelvin, fellow 10-year-old Munun youngster, loves math and dreams to be a mechanic one day working at Simberi mine.
“I thank everyone for building the classroom. I want to study hard and become a mechanic one day and work on trucks at the mine,” Kelvin said timidly.
Mrs Ruth Belas, teacher-in-charge who also teaches the kindy and prep class, says the new classroom and new desks have certainly lifted the spirts of the children and the community.
“When we the teachers see the children turn up bright and early every morning ready for class, we feel obligated to match their enthusiasm even though we are not paid.
“Early learning is the foundation of a child’s education. Elementary school is where we must have good classrooms, resources, and qualified teachers to prepare young children in kindy and pre-school to elementary 1 and 2 before they enter primary school.
“We thank St Barbara, SMAA and the community for working together on this new classroom which our children are enjoying and benefiting from.”
“We are aware that we need specialised training to work with our early learners and we hope we get help soon from the provincial education department for the sake of these children,” said Mrs Belas.
St Barbara and SMAA are also building another elementary school on the southeast coast of Simberi to cater for children from that part of the island. As part of its commitment to building stronger communities, St Barbara also supports the Simberi Primary School.
Since 2015, St Barbara has contributed over K310 million in community benefits including royalties, tertiary education scholarships, business development, community infrastructure, local employee wages and salaries, and compensation to the communities of Simberi, Tatau and Big Tabar islands.