K30mil NRI project approved

THE Government has approved the construction of a K30 million project for the National Research Institute (NRI).
Chairman Wilson Thompson said the NRI council noted that this was for the construction of the Sir Henry Chow Building and other works within the Waigani knowledge hub precincts.
“The K30 million construction project will provide the physical space, equipment, materials, books and technology,” he said.
“But we will seek further support from the Government to undertake a manpower development to equip it with the best brains to coordinate with all sectors and the private sector to produce the outcomes.”
Wilson commended the vision and support of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and Sports Minister Wesley Raminai, and members of the cabinet in championing this landmark building.
“The NRI council resolved in 2007 to establish a knowledge hub, comprising buildings, technology, aesthetic environment, collection of books and National Executive Council decisions and public policy documents, library and bookshop that provides intellectual space for academics, researchers, practitioners and students,” he said.
“I have served on many boards since 1998 within the education and cultural sector and this decision is fundamental as it will be a national landmark and that will be the pride of the nation.
“This decision and its implementation will be the first PNG Government infrastructure support to NRI since its inception in 1953.”
Wilson noted that the Government had provided K400,000 and K600,000 last year and 2021 respectively, which was the first actual funding for research since 1999.
“This shift away from the traditional recurrent budgetary support mostly for salaries and wages, utilities and administration is due to your visit to NRI in August 2019 and commitment to support informed decision making,” he said.
Raminai launched the NRI Strategic Plan 2030 and Corporate Plan 2022 in August and, on behalf of the Government, committed K2 million for research, the 2022 election studies and acquisition of a printing press to print publications.
“This is necessary towards our governance and political studies programme to contribute towards a better 2022 national elections and formation of government and contribution to new government’s strategic direction,” Thompson said.
He thanked the Government for its support to the NRI.