Parkop donates bus to girls school

By DULCIE OREKE
MARIANVILLE Secondary School outside Port Moresby has all reasons to celebrate after being presented with a new bus last Thursday.
Valued at K139,000, the bus was donated by the National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop from a commitment he made during the school’s cultural day last year.
During the presentation, Parkop said the timing was perfect, in that it  coincided with the National Women’s Day and NCDC was doing something in a real way to support the girls and women.
He said if the city could be safe for women and girls to move about at their free will anytime, then it would be also safe for everyone as well.
He stressed that the city had lacked a good reputation in terms of women’s security, violence, rubbish strewn around, spitting and other challenges it faced in the upkeep of its image.
Parkop, however, said NCDC had undertaken various initatives to address the situation including partnering with other stakeholders in the “meri safe house” and bus stop safety programmes at certain notorious parts of the city.
He also urged the young female students to continue their education and realise their full potential.
He admitted that despite his efforts to keep the city clean, it was tough in changing the mindset of people but this would not impede his efforts.
Principal Sr Angela Taylor lauded Parkop’s contribution while urging students to attend classes and finish school on time.