More than 8,000 elementary school students and teachers across 31 schools, as well as the surrounding communities, in seven districts of Morobe Province are now benefiting from improved access to cleaner water and enhanced learning environments.
This achievement is the result a K6 million investment from the Australian Government, complemented by a K500,000 co-contribution from the Morobe Provincial Administration.
As part of this collaborative initiative, 930 new desks have been delivered and 90 rainwater tanks installed across these schools, providing more reliable access to safer drinking water and better learning conditions for students and teachers.
The official handover of the assets by Australian Consul-General Brenton Kanowski to the Morobe Provincial Administration took place today at the Peter To Rot Elementary School in Lae.
This milestone reflects Australia’s enduring commitment to supporting education, strengthening essential services, and working side-by-side and in partnership with Papua New Guinea.
At the heart of this Water Security Project is a focus on strengthening governance and fostering partnerships. The Provincial Working Group—comprising leaders from the Morobe Provincial Administration and key stakeholders—has played a central role in guiding the project’s implementation.
"Australia is proud to work in close partnership with Morobe Province to deliver meaningful improvements that will have a lasting impact," said Consul-General Kanowski.
"Together, we are expanding access to cleaner water, enhancing learning environments, and reinforcing the foundations for stronger governance and more resilient communities."
Speaking at the ceremony, Morobe Deputy Provincial Administrator Robin Bazzinuc expressed appreciation for Australia’s continued support.
“Today’s handover is a clear demonstration of what strong partnerships can achieve.”
“We are deeply grateful to the Australian Government for its ongoing support to the people of Morobe, and for being a committed partner in achieving our shared goals,” said Mr Bazzinuc.
This partnership between Australia and Morobe Province is a powerful example of how collaborative efforts can transform communities and help build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient future for Papua New Guineans.
Morobe Deputy Provincial Administrator Robin Bazzinuc (left – second row), Bishop Rozario Menezes and Australian Consul-General Brenton Kanowski with students and staff of Peter To Rot Elementary School during the official handover of the desks and rainwater tanks.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100