The Qhatapa initiative, a PNG Sustainable Development Program Ltd. funded initiative implemented in partnership with KTF, celebrates and recognizes a community’s commitment to education – and is breathing new life into education in Lake Murray, Western Province.
The Qhatapa initiative is bringing new energy to education in Lake Murray, inspiring communities across 12 villages in Middle Fly District to take ownership of their schools.
This exciting program, built on a points system, rewards villages for improving teacher and student attendance while working on a community project of their choice.
At the end of each school term, points are tallied, and villages can redeem them for useful items such as solar lights, sewing machines, fishing nets, and even building materials.
These rewards motivate communities to stay engaged and make lasting improvements in their schools and surroundings.
The results have been remarkable with over 95% of participating villages having either started or completed a community project.
So far, four new classrooms have been built, four more have been refurbished, 23 toilet blocks have been constructed, and four maintenance projects have been completed.
Funded by the PNG Sustainable Development Program Ltd. and implemented with KTE, Qhatapa is more than just a program—it’s a celebration of a community’s dedication to education.
With education, Qhatapa is transforming lives in Lake Murry so that the communities take charge of their own future.
Because the schools that they built are not just buildings – they are building hope and opportunity and a stronger tomorrow.