AN Australian Government-funded fencing project for Betikama Adventist College’s (BAC’s) girls’ dormitories has been approved and will commence early next month.
This was highlighted by the Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Lindsay Buckingham when she delivered her speech at the handover of the College’s first ever public restroom facility on Thursday.
The restroom facility valued at more than $435, 000 was constructed under a shared funding arrangement between the Australian Government and BAC.
This fencing project was approved by the Australian government last year and work will commence this year. The cost of the fencing project was not immediately disclosed.
This project was given to BAC because the contractor assigned to build the firstever BAC Public Restroom, CS Vision Construction Ltd has done a tremendous job, completing the Public Restroom project within three months instead of four months as per the project timeframe.
The project should be completed within the time frame of four months: 15 April 2024 to 31 July 2024.
“I’m excited that because the contractor for this project has done a fantastic job in quickly completing it, Australia gave your school a second project last year and work is ready to start very soon on the fencing of girls’ dormitories,” Ms Buckingham said.
Ms Buckingham expressed her keenness in handing over more projects to BAC.
“I am looking forward to handing over more projects to BAC in the future.”
Last year the Australian government supported 100 community projects and this year, Australia will support 100 more community projects across Solomon Islands.
“We are proud to support communities in Solomon Islands deliver more community infrastructure projects like this one at BAC,” she added.
Ms Buckingham said Australia is engaging local contractors like CS Vision Construction to engage in community projects to support local people to have employment and grow their businesses.
“Australia is excited to support local contractors for the local communities’ projects. We work directly with local businesses for buying materials and building infrastructures,” she said.
In response, BAC Principal Beven Tutuo said, the school deeply appreciates this project as it will further ensure the safety and security of BAC students.
“As we celebrate today, we are also excited about the future. This successful collaboration has built a strong relationship with the Australian Partnership Team and we are thrilled to announce that they have already approved funding for the fencing of the girls’ dormitory, which is set to begin next month.
“This continued support is deeply appreciated as it will further ensure the safety and security of our students,” Principal Tutuo said.
The current fencing around the girls’ dorm is now old and needs to be upgraded.
Under the new project, the entire surrounding of the five existing girls dorm will be completely fenced to restrict intruders.
By LACHLAN SHYVES EDDIE
Solomon Star, Honiara
