The PNG University of Technology's Appropriate Technology and Community Development Institute (ATCDI) proudly launched a bore water supply project at Munum in Lae, Morobe Province. T his bore water project aims to provide access to clean water and sanitation for over 1,500 people in the Garofigi community of Munum village. It aligns with the University's commitment to community development by delivering innovative, community-based projects. The project took more than three months to complete and was led by Paul Pawa (Foreman Plumbing) and Benjoe Jerry (Steven) Artisan. Since its establishment in 1978, ATCDI has served as a vital link between the PNG University of Technology and the wider community of PNG.ATCDI's core mission is to conduct research and develop appropriate technologies that address rural development needs in PNG and to disseminate that knowledge to communities in a culturally sensitive and sustainable manner. Bore (well) water is sourced from underground aquifers, drilled out from the soil, stored in a tank, and then distributed through taps placed at accessible spots in the village. A total of fifteen tap stands were installed for the Garofigi community.
Honourable Jason Peter, Member for Huon District, attended the launch and expressed his gratitude to the University for undertaking such initiatives with small community projects. “We don't often receive sustainable projects like this at a reasonable cost, and we are truly grateful. This will help the community meet its basic need for fresh water for daily use," he said.He also mentioned that his office would explore opportunities to work closely with ATCDI to implement similar water supply projects across the Huon Gulf District. PNGUoT Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ora Renagi, emphasized the University's responsibility to support surrounding communities, not just produce graduates. "It’s unfair for some of us to have access to proper water supply and sanitation while others do not. As an institution of higher education, we must educate people to improve living standards for everyone, as we are all equal," he said. He added that the University is committed to offering innovative ideas for small projects at reasonable costs to communities across Morobe Province. ATCDI's projects serve as exemplary models for development not only in Morobe Province but across PNG as a whole.
PNGUoT Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ora Renagi, emphasized the University's responsibility to support surrounding communities, not just produce graduates. "It’s unfair for some of us to have access to proper water supply and sanitation while others do not. As an institution of higher education, we must educate people to improve living standards for everyone, as we are all equal," he said. He added that the University is committed to offering innovative ideas for small projects at reasonable costs to communities across Morobe Province.
The project took more than three months to complete and was led by Paul Pawa (Foreman Plumbing) and Benjoe Jerry (Steven) Artisan. Bore (well) water is sourced from underground aquifers, drilled out from the soil, stored in a tank, and then distributed through taps placed at accessible spots in the village. A total of fifteen (15) tap stands were installed for the Garofigi community.
