New boarding school brings hope to Kambia community

After 50 years without access to basic government services, the remote community of Kambia in Jiwaka Province will soon have its first ever boarding high school.

The Kambia Boarding High School was officially launched on Saturday, June 28, at Sikoi by Jiwaka Provincial Administrator Rick Kogen. The school is seen as a key development milestone as Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate its 50th year of Independence.

Mr Kogen said the project is part of the Jiwaka Provincial Government’s long-term vision to deliver essential services to neglected communities like Kambia.

Despite delays in 2023 due to contractor issues, construction is now set to begin with Nganbe Faith Construction mobilising on-site this week.

“The provincial government and administrations have also passed a resolution and spent another K400,000 to procure Lucas-Mill, Chainsaw, fuel drums, oils, and other necessities to mill timbers to build classrooms and staff housing,” Kogen said.

All supplies and workers will be airlifted due to the area’s rugged terrain and lack of road access.

Principal Advisor for Education Andrew Kuk commended the initiative and confirmed that the school is expected to welcome its first students in 2026.

Mr Kuk says this school will open up doors for other services like health care, amongst others.

Kambia lies beyond the Kupo Range and shares borders with the Southern Highlands, Simbu, and Western Highlands provinces. Its remote location has made it accessible only by air, cutting it off from schools, health care, and other essential services.

With two primary schools already established, the new high school is the next major step in improving lives in the region. Community members are being urged to support the project, which is expected to be completed in six months.