In a significant move toward community empowerment, the Coastal Pipeline Landowner Women Association (CPLWA) has officially signed a contract with Ramu NiCo for the construction of a much-anticipated community learning center.
The agreement was signed 16 April, 2025 at the Ramu NiCo head office in Madang.
Erick Kuman, General Manager of Ramu NiCo’s Community Affairs Department, expressed gratitude to the CPLWA executives for their decision to invest royalty funds into the development of the learning center.
“Their bold stand reflects a dedication to uplifting our community, particularly the women and girls who have often been sidelined in developmental efforts,” Kuman stated.
“The concept behind the community learning center is to create an inclusive space that addresses the educational needs of marginalized women and girls in the project area,” he said.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance access to education and resources for all community members.
Mr Kuman said women and girls and other male populace who have missed out on the education system could learn life skills training in the community learning center.
The life skills training could be cooking nutritious meals, baking, sewing and many others.
The contract was signed by Ramu NiCo Vice President Meng Deyong, and CPLWA Chairlady Ruth Kamai.
During the signing ceremony, Mr. Deyong encouraged the contractor to prioritize safety measures throughout the construction process.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining high-quality standards and adhering to the stipulated project timeline.
“This learning center will serve as a vital resource for our community, and it is crucial that the construction reflects our collective commitment to quality and safety,” Deyong remarked.
The CPLWA Chairlady, Ruth Kamai, highlighted the transformative potential of the learning center. “This is more than just a building; it is light of hope, knowledge, and empowerment for our women and girls in the coastal pipeline area of the Ramu NiCo’s nickel and cobalt project,” she said.
As the community looks forward to the construction of the center, the agreement signals a new era of collaboration and investment in local initiatives, paving the way for enhanced educational opportunities and greater inclusivity within the CPL area.
