With more schools and classrooms being built around the nation, contractors will be held accountable for every Toea in public funds they are given for construction.
That was the clear message delivered by Prime Minister Peter O’Neill when opening a new classroom in Kimbe, West New Britain Province.
“Continuing to improve education is our government’s commitment to our future generations,” he reiterated.
“Better education provides the greatest hope for our children, particularly in remote and rural areas.
“In 2018 we have allocated K1.29 billion for the education sector, which is nearly 9 percent of National Budget. This is an increase of 13 percent from the 2017 Supplementary Budget.”
The Prime Minister issued a stern warning to all companies involved in the construction of school projects that public money will be fully accounted for and documented.
“Many times the Government has given contracts to certain contractors who fail to complete their jobs and run off with payments.
“This must stop and we are looking back at previous contracts to identify any irregularities for further investigation.
“It is vital for our children to have proper buildings to learn and any time there is fraud, this deprives our children of their right to education.
“We also have seen a number of builders that have delivered high-quality school buildings and their commitment and accountability is helping us to advance the nation.”
In opening the new classroom building at the Waisisi Primary School in the Talasea District, PM O’Neill congratulated all who had worked on the project.
The Prime Minister further noted the growth that was occurring in the Talasea District and said the Government has met with the Boundaries Committee and have decided that Talasea District will soon become two districts, given its vast population and land boundaries.
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