Students of St Mary Star of the Sea Primary School in Balanataman Local Level Government (LLG) in Rabaul District, East New Britain (ENB) province, can now access a better learning environment with the opening of their newly constructed four-in-one classroom.

During its official opening on September 23rd, Rabaul District Administrator Mr. Freddy Lemeki, said the building was funded through the District Services Improvement Program at a cost of K450, 000.

“St Mary Star of the Sea Primary School has its own humble story to tell being that one of its classroom and teacher’s house were built from community-driven efforts alone with minimal government support.”

Mr. Lemeki said the school located along Rapolo Tavana accommodates a growing number of student population and is in need of additional school infrastructure therefore the Rabaul District Development Authority (RDDA) resolved to support the school with infrastructure and enhance academic learning.

The construction of the classroom was done by contractor 89 Consultancy & Engineering.

Meanwhile, Senior Professional Assistant for Primary Schools with the Provincial Division of Education, Mr. Kilala Wartovo commended the RDDA for prioritizing education infrastructure.

He commended the school from progressing from elementary to primary school status and recently graduated its pioneer Grade 8s who performed exceptionally well.

“The Education Division is trying its best to bring education services closer to the people and such initiatives by districts help us to achieve this.”

The Education Division is working tirelessly to have three junior high schools by next year in ENB.

Furthermore, Mr. Wartovo said the St Mary Star of the Sea has the potential to become a junior high school in 2027 due to influx of students from the area and nearby wards facing issues commuting daily to Kokopo Secondary School.