The people of Kandrian Gloucester witnessed another significant milestone in education development with the official opening of the new Science Laboratory Building at Kandrian Secondary School by local member and Minister for Rural and Economic Development, Joseph Lelang.
The occasion was attended by Kandrian Secondary School Principal Mr. Henry Seleu, Kandrian Coastal Local Level Government (LLG) President Mr. Peter Letong, Kandrian Gloucester District Education Advisor Mr. Condrad Boko, school board members, teachers, students, parents, and members of the surrounding communities.
Speaking during the ceremony, Minister Lelang reflected on the long journey that led to Kandrian Secondary School achieving full secondary school status.
He explained that the science laboratory was constructed years before the official establishment of the secondary school because the institution lacked the necessary facilities required by the Education Department.
“A school cannot become a proper secondary school without the required facilities,” Minister Lelang stated.
“That is why we invested early to ensure Kandrian would meet all the requirements and give our children the education opportunities they deserve.”
The Minister acknowledged the perseverance and commitment of the builders, school administration, and board members who worked closely with his office over the years to ensure the project became a reality.
A total of K500, 000 was initially allocated towards the construction of the Science Laboratory Building.
He emphasized the importance of practical learning in science education, saying students must not only study theory in classrooms but also conduct experiments and practical activities that strengthen their understanding of science and technology.
During the event, the Minister also commended Kandrian Secondary School for introducing the STEM education system.
He described STEM as a modern and effective learning approach that is already being implemented successfully in many schools throughout the country.
“The STEM system has the potential to prepare our students for overseas studies and equip them with skills that are relevant for the future.”
Minister Lelang reaffirmed his long-standing commitment to investing in human resource development since first being elected in 2012.
According to the Minister, investing in people remains the most important investment any government can make.
“You can invest in many things, but if you invest in human beings, there will always be change.”
The Minister highlighted the success of the Kandrian District Scholarship Scheme (KDSS), an initiative established in 2013 that continues to support students from the district in pursuing tertiary education across Papua New Guinea.
Under the scholarship scheme, all students from the district who secure placements in recognized institutions after Grade 12 receive full tuition sponsorship through the Kandrian Gloucester District Development Authority.
This year alone, more than 280 students are being sponsored at a total cost of K3.2 million.
Minister Lelang noted that this reflects an increase of K1.1 million compared to the previous year, which he described as a positive sign that more students are striving to perform academically and qualify for the scholarship program.
Since 2013, the Kandrian Gloucester District Development Authority (KGDDA) has invested more than K30 million into human resource development, with an estimated 5, 000 to 6, 000 students benefiting from the scholarship scheme and now contributing to the country’s workforce.
The Minister further announced additional commitments towards education infrastructure at Kandrian Secondary School, including K100, 000 for the purchase of science laboratory equipment for the newly opened facility.
In support of the school’s ongoing double-storey computer laboratory and library project, Minister Lelang also committed roofing irons, nails, and roofing caps, together with an additional K400, 000 for the purchase of computers, books, tables, chairs, shelves, and other furnishings needed to fully equip the building upon completion.
“Constructing buildings is one challenge, but furnishing and equipping them is another major cost altogether.”
Minister Lelang further revealed that efforts are underway to elevate Gloucester High School to secondary school status in order to ease the growing enrolment pressure on Kandrian Secondary School.
He assured the public that the necessary infrastructure support would be provided to achieve this goal.
He also announced that discussions are progressing with the Anglican Church to establish an additional Technical High School in the district to provide students with more educational pathways beyond mainstream academic learning.
Touching on broader development plans, the Minister outlined major infrastructure projects proposed under the National Government’s Connect PNG Program, including three major road links currently being pursued for approval.
“With these developments coming into the district, our students and workforce must be prepared to adapt and contribute meaningfully to future opportunities.”
Minister Lelang also referenced the recent launch of the MV Hiruoi vessel, stating that improved transport and service delivery would further accelerate development throughout the district and create additional opportunities for educated local citizens.
The Minister also commended Kandrian Secondary School for its plans to introduce the Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) system within the district. He said the initiative would greatly assist parents by allowing students to upgrade their education locally rather than travelling outside the district.
Meanwhile, Kandrian Coastal LLG President Mr. Peter Letong praised the Minister and the school administration for the continuous development taking place within the school.
He assured the school community that the people within the Kandrian Coastal LLG would continue supporting all education projects and developments.
District Education Advisor Mr. Condrad Boko also acknowledged the Minister’s support in improving water access at the school through assistance provided by New Britain Construction Limited.
The project included connecting fresh water to school dormitories and ablution blocks, resulting in functional flushing toilets, showers, and running water systems now available for students and staff.
Mr. Boko explained that water had been one of the school’s biggest challenges for many years, but through the intervention of contractors engaged by the Minister, the school now has access to solar-powered freshwatersystems.
Also speaking was Kandrian Secondary School Principal Mr. Henry Seleu, who thanked Minister Lelang for his consistent support towards education in the district and acknowledged the many developments taking place under the KGDDA.
Mr. Seleu said the opening of both the Science Laboratory Building and the school water system demonstrated the Minister’s genuine commitment towards improving the quality of education and student welfare in Kandrian Gloucester District.
The ceremony concluded with the official opening of the science laboratory building and the commissioning of the new water system by Minister Lelang, marking another important step forward in strengthening education infrastructure and human resource development within the district.
