𝗠𝗥𝗗𝗖 𝗨𝗣𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗧𝗦 𝗥𝗘𝗠𝗢𝗧𝗘 KUTUBU BOSAVE 𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗜𝗡𝗩𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗜𝗡 𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗢 𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛 𝗦𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗟

The Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) is uplifting education reach in the remote Kutubu-Bosavi region through its landmark investment in Waro High School, located approximately 41 kilometers from Moro Airport

Established in 2019, the school serves the isolated communities of Waro, Bosavi, Fogomaiyu, and Faso, and currently enrolls around 100 students. With major infrastructure works underway, enrollment is expected to increase significantly when the facilities are commissioned in September 2025.

The school’s infrastructure development is being funded through Petroleum Resources Kutubu (PRK) Community Infrastructure Trust Fund (CITF), a mechanism managed by MRDC and financed by royalties and equity from resource projects. The initiative forms part of MRDC’s broader community development strategy to improve service delivery in project-impacted areas.

The development includes 10 staff houses, six double classrooms, an administration block, a double classroom with an e-library, two 70-man boys’ dormitories, a girls’ dormitory, and a mess for student dining.

The project also features ablution blocks, full perimeter fencing, and solar-powered street lighting, providing a safe, modern, and conducive environment for learning. The facilities being constructed are among the best in the country for rural schools, setting a new standard for education in remote areas.

In addition to infrastructure, MRDC, through its subsidiary Petroleum Resources Kutubu (PRK), has provided logistical support to Waro High School, including the donation of a school truck in 2020 to ease transportation challenges.

The Principal, School Management, Board, and surrounding communities have all expressed deep appreciation and have fully supported the project, which is on track for completion by September 2025.

Sam Awabe, a current student at the University of Papua New Guinea and a proud son of Waro and Bosave, understands firsthand the struggles students in there face in pursuit of an education. He is among the very few from Waro and Bosave who have made it to university.

“On behalf of all the students, future leaders, and citizens of Waro Valley, Fogomaiyu, the Faso Region, and the broader Kutubu-Bosave area, I want to sincerely thank Petroleum Resources Kutubu, under the leadership of Chairman John Kapi Natto and Directors Mark Sakai and Johnny Yawari, for funding this vital project through MRDC,” Sam said.

“I also acknowledge and thank MRDC Managing Director Augustine Mano and the Board for approving and supporting this initiative. Special thanks to our hardworking Chairman, Mr. Peter Wawe Kokomai, the Interim Board of Management, our communities, and all stakeholders for your commitment and support,” added Sam.

“This project is not just about new buildings; it is about transformation. It changes the story of our village and the future of our young people. Parents now have an opportunity to earn income by selling fresh produce. Students can now complete Grade 10 right here in the village, something we could only dream of.”

“I urge my younger brothers and sisters and the next generation to make good use of these high-quality facilities. Respect your teachers, most of whom come from outside, and take your studies seriously. We want to see many of you reach university and beyond.”