Hela school sees renovation of classroom

Students from Homa Paua Primary School in Hela Province are the latest recipients of a refurbished classroom, thanks to operator of the PNG LNG Project, ExxonMobil PNG Limited.

In partnership with the Evangelical Church of PNG and the local community, the full maintenance of a double classroom for Grade five and six students was carried out. Complementing the improved learning environment was the supply of 40 new desks.

The refurbishment of the double classroom is part of ExxonMobil PNG’s commitment to assisting upgrade in schools in PNG LNG project area communities.

“With the classroom being such an important place in the growth of a child, it is important that we ensure that the learning environment is one that helps students thrive,” said ExxonMobil PNG’s pipeline supervisor, Patrick Blackmon.

“When students have a safe and comfortable place to learn, they have the best opportunity to receive quality education. We must remember our children are our future.”

Surrounded by smiling faces, the teachers explain that they face many challenges in their line of duty.

“Teaching in remote areas is not easy, especially when you have limited resources,” explains head teacher Jonathan Ogoli. “We face many challenges but we keep going because we are determined to build a stronger nation, and support from ExxonMobil PNG is helping us do that.

“A large amount of a child’s time is spent sitting in a school classroom and it is our responsibility to ensure they are comfortable to learn,” Ogoli added.

ExxonMobil PNG has refurbished and built new school facilities, distributed books, sports equipment and school materials across its Project footprint since 2010. It is also helping to build the capacity of teachers by facilitating training and the provision of teachers’ housing for a number of schools.

Author: 
Press release