Schools host Ramu NiCo’s programme

TWO elementary schools in Basamuk, Rai Coast district of Madang, were recently visited by the a Ramu NiCo MCC team conducting an awareness programme on the environment permit and operational management plan.
Tugyak and Mindere elementary schools were told about Ramu NiCo’s environment permit and management plan.
It is conducted regularly as a requirement by the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority.
Ramu NiCo Basamuk Refinery environment officer Moses Ya’a said the two schools were located west and east of the refinery plant.
“These two schools were selected for this third quarter environment awareness to change our approach in disseminating information from adults to children,” he said.
“Children should understand at their level (early stage of growth and education) what the environment is and its importance in their everyday life.
“There was a perception among the people that the activities at the refinery had a negative impact on the environment and the community.
“Through this programme, the company is reaching out to the community to inform and educate them in a positive and meaningful way,” he said.
Ya’a said people from the nearby communities were employed by the company.
Ramu NiCo’s environment officer Kaupa Kia talked about what the environment was and what they should do to preserve it.