Tony Pako, Headmaster of Uma Junior High School in Aiya LLG, Kagua-Erave District, has expressed heartfelt gratitude following the donation of 40 student desks to the school — a major milestone since its establishment in 2023.
Speaking during the delivery of the desks, Mr. Pako said the school had operated for more than three years without proper desks, forcing over 400 students to sit on the floor while attending classes and completing their schoolwork.
“Since the establishment of Uma Junior High School in 2023, we never had desks for our students. It was one of the saddest situations for a new school, seeing our children sitting on the floor trying to learn,” Mr. Pako said.
Despite the difficult conditions, he said teachers remained committed because education was the only pathway to shape the future of the students.
Mr. Pako said the situation became even more emotional in 2025 when the school’s pioneer Grade 10 students sat for their national examinations while seated on the floor.
“The challenge was heavy on me as the headmaster. Watching our pioneer Grade 10 students last year doing their national exams while sitting on the floor broke my heart,” he said.
He said hope arrived after a social media post showing students sitting on the floor reached Lims Mirupasi, who quickly responded and coordinated assistance.
“After the post showing our students sitting on the floor doing their schoolwork, Mr. Lims Mirupasi contacted me and assured us help was coming. Within a short time, we received confirmation that 40 desks would be delivered,” Mr. Pako said.
Mr. Pako acknowledged that the desks were personally funded by Kepson Komea Pupita.
“Today, May 27, 2026, marks the first day in the history of Uma Junior High School that our Grade 10 students are sitting comfortably on desks while doing their tests. Seeing the smiles and comfort on their faces is something millions of kina cannot buy,” he said.
He described the donation as more than just furniture, saying it restored dignity, confidence, and hope to both students and teachers.
“These desks are not just desks. They are a symbol of hope, care, and the belief that rural children also deserve quality education and proper learning facilities,” Mr. Pako said.
The school community, parents, and students have conveyed their sincere appreciation to Mr. Mirupasi for responding quickly to the school’s needs and to Mr. Pupita for personally funding the desks.
The donation is expected to significantly improve the learning environment and motivate students to focus on their education with greater confidence and pride.