By Fabian Hakalits – EMTV News, Port Moresby
A community in East Sepik province has decided to build classrooms for their children instead of waiting on contractors to do the job.
They’ve been using their manpower to build the classroom at the Haumbuke Elementary School.
A local, Petrus Wali, tells EMTV News this is not new to them, and they’ve been doing this for almost three decades now, since the primary school was established in 1992.
“We believe that through education, they are able to improve the livelihood of the people,” Wali said.
A local mother, Carol Wasi, said the women have been working alongside with men, in building the classroom from day one.
Moses Numihahu was busy eating, but wanted to voice his appreciation for the political support that has provided relief for the villagers.
“I thank our member for Yangoru-Saussia for helping us, a help which we were never given in the past,” he said.
Ronald Yawiha, Haumbuke Primary School Head Teacher, said that parents and citizens have been working really hard to ensure their children, and to have a classroom to learn in.
Now with the new four in one classroom complete, it’s a blessing because it will cater for increasing enrolmen’s.
“I thank the government of the day under the leadership of Yangoru-Saussia MP, Richard Maru, for investing in education,” he said.
This is a story about community participation and taking ownership of projects rather than relying so much on the government for free hand outs and assistance.
It reflects how the win-win solution works, with communities showing commitment, and the government chipping in to support.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=KSsgHSBRZbI%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0
