The Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries are making significant progress on the delivery of education infrastructure projects at four schools across Hela Province, with the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) providing project supervision and contract management through to completion.
Funded through the Community Investment Trust Fund (CITF), the projects will benefit Hiwanda Primary School, Juni Junior High School, Habono Primary School, and Benaria Primary School. The investments were prioritised in response to education infrastructure needs identified by local communities.
MRDC Managing Director Augustine Mano commended MRDC’s different subsidiary companies with their boards and Hela Governor Philip Undialu for their commitment to improving education outcomes in the province.
“These projects demonstrate strong leadership and a clear commitment to addressing the needs of local communities,” Mr Mano said.
“MRDC’s presence on the ground in Hela allows us to effectively oversee project delivery and ensure infrastructure is built to a high standard. These investments will support long-term education development and contribute to the socio-economic growth of Hela Province.”
MRDC General Manager Assets and Infrastructure Reginald Ope said two of the four projects have reached the final stages of construction.
At Hiwanda Primary School, works on a two-storey double classroom building are nearing completion, with final painting and furniture installation currently underway.
At Juni Junior High School, finishing works, painting and kitchen joinery are progressing on two three-bedroom staff houses.
“The contractor is targeting completion of both projects by November 2026. Regular site inspections will continue to ensure any defects are identified and rectified before final inspection and handover,” Mr Ope said.
Meanwhile, construction has commenced at Habono Primary School, where foundation works are underway for two double classroom buildings and four three-bedroom staff houses.
“The project is expected to be completed before the end of 2026, subject to construction and weather conditions,” Mr Ope said.
For Benaria Primary School, the project site has been confirmed and all required building materials procured. Construction is expected to commence in early November 2026.
“The project is currently in the pre-construction phase. Timely transportation of materials and contractor mobilisation will be critical to ensuring works begin as scheduled,” he said.
MRDC and its subsidiaries will continue working closely with school communities, contractors and relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful completion and handover of all four projects.
