Minister Siune opens new classroom in Kambang Mandai
IN a historic show of community spirit and governmental support, the people of Kambang Mandai in the Gena Waugla Local Level Government (LLG) in Chimbu witnessed the official ribbon-cutting of a new Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) classroom on Aug 7.
The eventwas officiated by the local Member of Parliament and newly appointed Minister for Education, Francis K. Siune.
The new facility, constructed at an approximate cost of K300,000, stands as a testament to grassroots initiative and community resilience. While the funding was sourced through government channels, the vision and drive behind the project were spearheaded by local leader Kunagil Kolkia.
With the unwavering support of the local community and the Chimbu FODE representative team leader, Mr Kolkia mobilised the community to provide essential labour and resources, ensuring the building was completed efficiently and to standard.
“We saw a need and did not waste time to mobilise and seek the support of Agnes Kaupa, the FODE coordinator in Chimbu, she was the one who made everything possible,” said Mr Kolkia.
“Today is not just about a building; it is about accessibility and hope,” Minister Siune said during his address.
“Education is the backbone of our nation, and FODE provides a second chance for our young people and adults who wish to further their studies. I commend Kunagil Kolkia and the people of Kambang Mandai for their 'can-do' attitude. This project is a prime example of how public-private-community partnerships can yield tangible results.”
Education secretary, Dr Uke Kombra, who attended the opening, said that he was overwhelmed by the community and Ms Kaupa’s efforts and said to have the school registered so it can receive government support.
The minister was accompanied by a high-level delegation from the Education Department, including the Dr Kombra, and officials from the FAS-project education unit, Marlon Akino and minister’s first secretary, Gibson Siune. Their presence underscored the national government's commitment to expanding educational infrastructure in remote and rural areas.
In a surprise announcement that electrified the crowd of more than 2,500 locals from the Gena and Bandi clans, Minister Siune presented the Kambang Mandai FODE centre with a K500,000 support grant. The funds are intended to enhance the centre's operational capacity, including the procurement of learning materials, furniture, and the establishment of a resource library.
Furthermore, the Minister made a significant pledge for the wider electorate. He committed an additional K600,000 for the construction of a similar FODE school to be erected in the Gena-Nogar Constituency, ensuring that more citizens in the region will have access to distance education opportunities.
“This is only the beginning,” Minister Siune said. “We are committed to spreading these facilities across the province to ensure no child is left behind due to geographical barriers.”
Dr Kombra praised the community's involvement.
“A school is not just bricks and mortar; it is the heart of a community. Seeing the ownership that the people of Kambang Mandai have taken in this project is truly inspiring. It sets a standard for other communities across Papua New Guinea.”
The venue was overflowing with excitement, with estimates placing the crowd at over 2,500 people, including students, elders, women, and children. The event was marked by traditional singsing groups, vibrant cultural performances, and a palpable sense of pride.
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