Chuave community raises serious concerns over deteriorating school infrastructure

The people of Chuave are calling for urgent government action as the Yawe Moses Memorial Secondary School [YMSS] struggles with crumbling classrooms, unsafe dormitories, and failing sanitation facilities, raising serious concerns about student safety and well-being.

Led by alumni Sherly Launa and Alfiee Mori, the community staged a rally demanding immediate infrastructure support, citing risks to students’ health and dignity.

“The state of the classrooms and dormitories is alarming. These facilities are no longer safe for our children,” Launa said.

Provincial Education Advisor Kutna Bepwick acknowledged the issues, indicating that YMSS has received minor grants but needs significant funding beyond the provincial education budget. “Public service funds, whether DSIP or PSIP, should be appropriated for the intended purpose. Serious questions need to be asked at the management level,” Bepwick said.

Lawyer David Sopane, a local, added that the annual budget allocations for education appear not to have reached YMSS, urging authorities to be held accountable. “If YMSS is neglected to this current state, serious questions need to be asked of provincial, district, and government officials,” he said.

The provincial government has invested in 30 high schools across Simbu, including K7.8 million last year, but advocates say more targeted support is needed for YMSS. Bepwick called on the community to continue lobbying for infrastructure improvements, emphasizing that the students’ safety and education must remain a top priority.

NBC News reached out to the Member for Chuave, James Nomane, for his comments; however, to date there has not been a response.

Chuave District Administrator Francis Aiwa told NBC News that District Education Officer Poka Sunamisi has been tasked to investigate and verify the allegations. “We will receive his report and take the next steps,” Mr. Aiwa said.