Agiru memorial school in Tari receives STEM Kits to boost science learning

Agiru Memorial Dauli High School students with teachers at background. (NBC News: Peter Esop Wari)

Agiru Memorial Dauli High School in Komo Hulia District has received a major boost to science education after collecting three crates of science kits donated by the National Department of Education [NDoE] from the Hela Education Services Office in Tari on Tuesday [21-07-26].

The school was among four Hela high schools selected for the donation, alongside Juni, Pureni, and Paka High Schools. The support followed a formal request by Hela Governor Philip Undialu to the NDoH.

School Principal Terence Tandale thanked the Governor for recognizing Dauli High as one of the province’s future Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics [STEM] institutions.

“I acknowledge the Governor for recognizing our school and providing three crates of science kits for Grades 7 to 10 students,” Mr. Tandale said.

He said education services in Hela have improved significantly since former Hela Education Services Director Ronny Angu took office. He is now the Provincial Administrator.

“With the support of the provincial government, education services have improved significantly. Donations like this will ensure student learning is improved,” he said.

Agiru Memorial Dauli High School principal Terence Tandale (middle) with fellow teachers showing some of the science kits they recieved this morning at the school. (NBC News: Peter Esop Wari)

Mr. Tandale said the kits are vital because they move students beyond textbooks and abstract theory into practical, hands-on learning.

“By allowing students to touch, mix, build and observe, these kits improve concept retention, encourage independent problem-solving, and inspire long-term interest in critical STEM fields,” he explained.

“For students, especially in under-resourced or rural schools, these kits turn real-world science into visible reality. Instead of just memorizing definitions, learners are involved in the ‘tell, show, experience’ model. That deepens comprehension and makes education fun.

Senior Science Teacher Parabu Peterson said this is the third donation the school has received from NDoE and the Hela Provincial Government.

He thanked both the National Department of Education and the provincial government for their continued support.

However, he said the school’s biggest need now is a dedicated science laboratory to properly store the equipment and conduct experiments.

“While we thank Governor Undialu for his continuous support, we are calling on the Provincial Government, the Komo Hulia District Development Authority, and other agencies to assist with funding a science laboratory,” Mr. Peterson appealed.