Institute dedicates buildings

THE National Polytechnic Institute of Papua New Guinea’s tourism and hospitality department buildings were dedicated on Wednesday after undergoing major renovations.
Previously Lae Technical College, the institution was established in 1954.
The refurbishment of five buildings was completed at a cost of K300,000.
The refurbished buildings were the administration office, motel units, butchery, a double-storey classroom and the Ahi restaurant.
Dean of business studies and tourism and hospitality Solomon Kalyo said the project was possible because of the school’s governing council, its administration and the leadership team’s financial management.
Kalyo said Polytech did not receive any direct Government funding and relied on school fees to do projects.
He said a project of such magnitude required prudent financial management and he commended all involved it its implementation.
Governing council deputy chairman Ps John Garu said the occasion marked a new chapter in the life of the department after years of neglect.
He said despite the reasons for the lack of attention to the department, “today marks the day of putting back value or importance to the department”.
Ps Garu said it was an important investment made by the institution and commended its governing council.
He said the department could be a revenue earner for the institute.
He urged the department’s staff to work in collaboration with the institution’s management team to establish strategies and plans to enhance this potential.
“I believe with the refurbished buildings, learning environment is now conducive to improve and enhance teaching and learning,” he said.
Ps Garu acknowledged the administration under director Joselito Marcos for their efforts in ensuring this project was successful.