A SPORTS competition to raise funds and help rebuild Mbilua school in Vonunu, Vella Western Province was held in the past days.
Newly appointed Western Provincial Sports Minister Eric Hitu officially launched this fundraising drive on Tuesday.
Football and netball are being featured during this weeklong social event.
The sports event aims to raise funds to support the school since it has been left abandoned with poor infrastructures, building, no proper and standard classrooms for students for decades up until now.
In his speech, the minister emphasized the importance of sports in fostering discipline, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles among students.
“Sports, especially soccer, are a vital part of education. It teaches our children important life skills that will benefit them both on and off the field,” he said.
Minister Hitu said however highlighted Mbilua Community High School was formerly known as Vonunu Primary School was started by the Methodist Church and was registered in 1995 and it was under the governance of Western Provincial Government (WPG).
“However, in 2005 there was a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between WPG and United Church Education Authority (UCEA) so Bilua School was transferred to the United Church with registration number UC/1/48/55 to date.
“Later this school was upgraded to Community High School providing education services for basic education level year 7 and year 9,” he said.
He said this is another milestone for this school since its establishment.
“You may agree with me that the period between 1955 to 2024 which is about 69 years, this school has produced more teachers, doctors, parliamentarians, provincial members, ministers, nurses, pastors and many more.
“Today as I reflect back to this 69 years of registration for a school which produced more human resources have raised a lot of question,” he added.
Hitu also highlighted the importance of education is a shared responsibility to educate child to be a productive citizen of our nation, province and the community.
Mbilua School Chairman Organising Committee Lackstone expressed gratitude to the sports minister and the wider community for their support.
“We are thankful for the continuous backing from leaders and everyone who has contributed to our cause. This will greatly enhance our students’ ability to compete at higher levels,” he added.
The fundraising event included a series of soccer matches, food stalls, and entertainment.
A number local businesses and community members have also contributed generously towards the cause.
All proceeds will go directly towards to the school administration.
More than 10 teams from South Vella, and Rannoga have registered and joined the one-week soccer and netball competition.
By Ulutah Gina
Solomon Star, Gizo