Students receive desks after sitting on floor

STUDENTS at a school in Enga have been given 20 new desks by the Porgera Joint Venture (PJV) through its Better Schools programme.
The students attending the Alipis Elementary School used to sit on the floor during classes.
Another 20 desks were donated to the school at Aumbi last month as part of PJV’s plan to supply 200 desks to schools in the special mining lease area by the end of 2019.
PJV executive managing director Tony Esplin said the company regarded education as important.
“Education is the cornerstone of society.
“It opens up opportunity and lifts people out of disadvantage,” Esplin said.
“Any investment in education is an investment in the future, whether you are a student, a parent encouraging your child or a company providing resources and assistance.”
The desks were made by local carpenters.
Alipis Elementary School teacher Jeffery Mark said the donation was a great show of support from PJV.
“Children (used to sit) on the floor. PJV responded quickly with desks and I am happy,” he said.
PJV also provided library books, curriculum materials, stationery, chairs and homework lap desks.