Mangonana Primary School in Buka, Autonomous Region of Bougainville has received new desks and stools from Kina Bank through its Strongim Komuniti Grant (SKG) program.
The SKG program is part of Kina Bank’s commitment to sustainability and community development. It is open only to Kina Bank employees, who can apply for quarterly grants to support small but meaningful community projects.
Kina Bank’s Senior International Operations Officer, Ms. Meverlyn Komangin, who successfully applied for the grant, said the project was completed on time and has greatly improved the students’ learning environment by providing safer and more comfortable classroom furniture.
“The existing desks and chairs are in poor condition, leading to overcrowding where more than three students share a desk. This hinders students’ ability to focus and learn effectively. I am pleased to give back to my community school to enhance learning for our students,” Ms. Komangin said.
The school’s Head Teacher, Mr. Penias Torot, thanked Kina Bank and Ms. Komangin, saying the support shows a strong partnership in education ensuring no child is left behind.
“The desks and stools for Grades 3 to 8 have improved classroom comfort, safety, and student engagement and helped address the school’s long-standing shortage of furniture. Thank you Kina Bank and Ms. Komangin for realising our need and coming to our aid,” he said.
Since its launch in 2023, Kina Bank’s SKG program has supported various community projects across PNG, including supplying water tanks to schools, providing learning materials, donating medical supplies to rural areas, delivering school furniture, and installing solar power at health facilities.
Ms Meverlyn Komangin (right), Head Teacher Mr. Penias Torot, along with a senior teacher and students, pose with the newly provided desks and stools.