May 5th 2009 - Digicel Foundation Funds Double Classroom in Chimbu Province

Gembogl: the Digicel PNG Foundation has launched its fourth school building project, a double classroom for Mendikwae Primary School at Gembogl Station in Chimbu province.

The Digicel PNG Foundation funded the new double classroom, including 30 double school desks, at a total cost of K50,000. The new facility will cater for the rapidly increasing number of primary school children from local villages. At present, the school has close to 200 students enrolled.

The new facility is a testimony of commitment to and desire for education in Mendikwae, something the Foundation has encountered across PNG. Recent heavy rains made it inpassable for vehicles to get to the site. Nonetheless, building materials were carried up to the site, situated in one of the most remote parts of the province, sitting at over 2,000 metres above sea level, by committed volunteers from the community.

Students, parents, workers and teachers were joined at the ceremony by a large crowd from the surrounding villages, all demonstrating their enthusiasm and appreciation for this new addition to their local educational facilities.

Mr John Gena, the School Board Chairman, said at the launch:
“We are very proud recipients of the new double classroom funded by the Digicel Foundation. This new educational resource will cater for the grade 7 and 8 students and will improve their learning environment. We thank Digicel Foundation for their very valuable contribution to the education and the future of our children”.

Marina van der Vlies, CEO of the Digicel Foundation, added:
“We are very happy to be launching the fourth Digicel Foundation school project here at Mendikwae primary school today. The building of this double classroom was not an easy task but we succeeded. Congratulations to all of you for your hard work and support!”

The Digicel PNG Foundation has completed three school building projects since its launch in October last year; a new elementary and primary school for Barakau village in the Central Province, a double classroom for Omai primary school in the Southern Highlands and a double classroom, which was launched just one week ago, at Milfordhaven elementary school in Lae, Morobe Province.

In focusing on improving the learning environment for young children the Digicel Foundation strives to enhance children’s lives giving them a positive outlook for their future.