New solar power and science labs open doors for Komo students

Key development partners pose in front of the newly opened classroom for Mananda High School in Komo, Hela (Image: NBC News)

Hela governor Philip Undialu joined key development partners last Friday to commission Mananda High School and several major infrastructure projects in the Komo Local Level Government [LLG] area of Komo-Hulia district.

The newly commissioned facilities include a solar power system funded by the National Energy Authority [NEA], new staff housing built by ExxonMobil PNG Ltd, and a four-in-one science and computer laboratory constructed by the Mineral Resources Development Company [MRDC)], equipped with Starlink satellite internet funded by the Hides Gas Development Company [HGDC].

Governor Undialu praised the public-private partnership, describing the simultaneous delivery of infrastructure by multiple corporate and state entities as a unique achievement for a rural school.

“Komo LLG alone has received three new high and secondary schools, including Mananda High School,” Governor Undialu said.

“The provincial government, through Hela Education Services under former education director and current Provincial Administrator Ronny Angu, established these institutions and funded Mananda’s administration building. I sincerely thank NEA, ExxonMobil, MRDC, and HGDC for partnering with us.”

Hela governor Philip Undialu (right) during the commissioning of the new school facilities (Image: NBC News)

Governor Undialu emphasized that modern infrastructure must translate directly into improved academic performance, urging parents and community members to take responsibility for supporting their children’s education.

“These buildings are not for beautification; they must deliver positive results, meaning students must excel academically,” he said.

“When results are achieved, more support will follow. The community must not take this for granted.”

Mananda High School Headteacher John Wangi expressed gratitude to the stakeholders, stating that the project significantly improves conditions for both staff and students in the remote district.

“We are not just opening buildings; we are opening the future for our children,” Wangi said.

“For years we suffered without reliable power. The biggest challenge for remote schools is attracting and retaining qualified teachers, which the new accommodation addresses. Students can now conduct practical science lessons in biology, chemistry, and physics inside a proper laboratory with Starlink internet access.”