The Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiary Gas Resources Plant (GRPNGLNGP) recently announced the handover of a double classroom to Redscar High School in Porebada village, on the PNG LNG Project plant site outside Port Moresby.
The newly constructed facility is a welcome addition to the high school, which has been experiencing a significant shortage of classroom space.
It took two months to finish the double classroom, which cost K620,000.
Local contractors were hired to complete the project, with labor coming from the surrounding communities.
Commenting during the handover of the new facility, MRDC General Manager, Reginald Ope said he was pleased to attend this event on behalf of the MRDC management to hand over very vital facility for use by children from the area.
“I am glad that we have completed this double classroom in time for the start of the 2025 school year.”
“For our kids to do well, we as a community must provide the necessary facilities like classrooms, science labs, or libraries, for them to thrive in their learning.”
Ope commended the leadership of GRPNGLNGP for investing in their Community Infrastructure Trust Fund (CITF) funds in various high quality social development projects in the plant site villages, especially in the education and health sectors.
“I want to commend Chairlady Ms Ulato Avei and her board for their foresight and vision in prioritizing education in their CITF program.”
“Since 2017, GRPNGP and MRDC have delivered over 20 classrooms, and more than 30 teachers’ houses in schools in the plant site community.”
“Education is key to unlocking opportunities for our children in a fast-changing world.”
“We must do all we can to ensure every child gets a decent education for a shot at a better life.”
He stated that in addition to providing adequate facilities in schools, the MRDC runs the Tertiary study Subsidy Program for students from the area who continue their study elsewhere.
He stated that during the last three years, the Subsidy Scheme has helped 1,176 students at various higher institutions around the country.