Communities in the Hides area of Hela Province are benefiting from a number of social development projects in education, health and infrastructure.

Gas Resources Hides 4 Limited, a subsidiary of the Mineral Resources Development Company, has commissioned new science and computer laboratory facilities at Malanda Junior High School in the Komo-Hulia District.

Funded through the company’s Community Investment Trust Fund, the project includes a modern four-in-one classroom facility with purpose-built science and computer laboratories.

MRDC External Affairs Officer James Debela said the facilities would provide students with better environments for science, technology and digital learning.

"Modern science and computer laboratories, reliable electricity and internet connectivity are no longer optional features of education.”

“They are essential components of quality learning.”

Other education projects underway include new classrooms and staff housing at Beneria Primary School, Juni Jnr High School, Hiwanda Primary School, Habona Primary School, Para Primary School, Belopa Primary and Paduba-Likame Elementary schools.

In health, GRH4 has begun procuring materials for the Para Community Health Post, a Level 2 health facility, while the Hides Water Supply Project, valued at about K9.8 million, is also progressing.

GRH4 has more than K59 million committed to education, health, utilities and community development projects across the Hides area.