Schools rugby programme resumes after disruption

THE Get into Rugby (GIR) programme for schools in the five Papua New Guinea LNG-impact villages in Hiri-West, Central, resumed on May 13. The initial eight-week programme, which was launched by NiuPower Limited on Feb 23, was disrupted by the recent Covid-19 lockdown that had forced schools throughout PNG to close for several weeks. GIR trainer Aguna Seri Frank said the teachers and students were keen to resume training following the re-opening of schools and easing of Covid-19 restrictions. “Training is being conducted under a revised schedule at schools in Kido, Lealea, Papa, Boera and Porebada villages,” Frank said.  “It will culminate in a June 25 festival where teams from these schools will demonstrate their new tag rugby skills.” NiuPower chief executive Michael Uiari commended the schools for resuming training under the revised programme. “The enthusiasm shown by students and teachers in resuming training is encouraging,” he said. “Apart from the skills we will impart through the GIR schools programme, we hope to promote our core values of discipline, respect, integrity, passion and solidarity.”