Students at Mugil Primary School are returning to normal school attendance following the completion of the replacement Mugil Bridge in Madang Province.

The bridge provides a vital transport link for students travelling to school, as well as communities across Madang, Sumkar, Bogia and Middle Ramu districts.

Mugil Primary School Head Teacher, Mr Alphonse Bass, said school attendance dropped when the old bridge was closed, as it was the only access route for students.

“The only access for students to school is the Mugil bridge.”

“When it was closed, school attendance dropped. When the bridge was fully completed, school attendance returned to normal.”

The new bridge, delivered by Australia in partnership with the Department of Works and Highways, provides a safer and more reliable connection for more than 400,000 people.

Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Dr Cate Rogers said reliable infrastructure helps children attend school safely and consistently, keeping them connected to education and future opportunities.

“Through the PNG-Australia Partnership, Australia is proud to support infrastructure that helps children get to school safely and consistently.”

Beyond education, the bridge also improves access to health services, markets and economic opportunities for local communities.

Since 2024, Australia has invested K23.5 million in maintaining the Northern Coastal Highway, while 12 new contracts are underway for seawall construction, road maintenance, drainage and resealing works.