Four schools in the vicinity of the PNG LNG Plant site in the Central province recently received new educational infrastructures thanks to the operator of the PNG LNG, ExxonMobil PNG Limited. In a gesture to show and strengthen the long-standing commitment to education in Papua New Guinea (PNG), ExxonMobil PNG Limited handed over seven newly built educational infrastructure projects valued at almost K2 million to the communities of Lealea, Papa, Boera and Porebada. Lealea and Boera Primary schools together with Papa Junior High School each received a double story classroom while Porebada Primary School got a double story duplex classroom. In addition to the classrooms, Lealea Primary School and Papa Junior High School each got a new staff house, while Porebada Primary School got keys to a brand-new administration building. “At ExxonMobil, we believe that education drives social and economic development and improves living standards, which is why it has been a long-standing community investment focus area for us,” said Dinesh Sivasamboo, Chairman and Managing Director of ExxonMobil PNG Limited. “A well-structured learning environment, infused with the right resources and a positive atmosphere, can be transformative for both students and staff.” “Infrastructure investments like these clearly demonstrate our partnership with, and ongoing commitment to – PNG and its people,” Sivasamboo said. In acknowledging the support from ExxonMobil PNG, Mr. Taumaku Baru, Board of Management Chairman of Porebada Primary School, encouraged the community to look after the newly built infrastructure. “I thank ExxonMobil PNG for their continuous support to our schools and community, for now the challenge comes back to teachers, students and parents on how well we can look after these facilities for the future,” he said. ExxonMobil PNG’s ongoing investment in education across schools neighbouring the PNG LNG Plant site has also included first aid units, educational programs and computer donations. Since LNG production commenced in 2014, ExxonMobil PNG has invested more than K18 million in educational initiatives across its project areas ranging from refurbishing and building new school facilities and teacher’s houses, WASH amenities, secure fencing, distribution of SBC textbooks and teacher training materials, stationery support, uniforms and sports equipment.