BY RIODAN BEGSUHAR
THE Morobe provincial government has donated K200,000 to the people of Southern Highlands and Hela provinces affected by the 7.5-strong earthquake of February 26.
Provincial disaster and emergency director Charlie Masange confirmed this yesterday, saying the donation was made last week by Morobe Governor Ginson Saonu.
Mr Masange said the donation would also be used to assist the Kadovar Island volcano victims in East Sepik Province.
“The Morobe provincial government has made the donation as part of the PNG and global community to help the affected people in Southern Highlands and Hela provinces. From this amount we will also arrange relief for the Kadovar volcano victims,” he said.
As part of the provincial government’s relief efforts, St Paul’s Primary School also donated rice, water, tinned fish, noodles and soaps.
Mr Massange thanked the school for being the first school in Lae to be a part of a worthy cause.
“St Paul’s and has come on board, it would be positive if other schools in Lae follow suit before we arrange transport to take the donation to highlands,” he said.
St Paul’s coordinator Sesiku Sawe, who arranged the donations with the students, said the donations were from their heart for they understand that the education of some children in Hela and Southern highlands has been affected, prompting them to do something.
“Such times call for a step up from various groups to contribute and help in their little ways. And these cartons of goods are from our hearts to the people of Southern Highlands and Hela provinces,” Mr Sawe said.