THE Bulolo District Development Authority (BDDA), under the leadership of Bulolo MP Sam Basil Jr., has announced the continuation of its Primary School Teachers Training program.
This year, a substantial funding of K250,000.00 was presented to Balob Teachers College, as part of the Bulolo Corporate – Basil Scholarship Program, aimed at fostering educational opportunities for aspiring teachers from the Bulolo District.
During the funding presentation, Mr Basil Jr. paid homage to his late father, Sam Basil Snr., who initiated the scholarship program.
“I am continuing the legacy of developing human resources that serve the remote villages in the District. Late Sam Basil Snr. committed to covering 100% of tuition fees for students from Bulolo to attend Teachers Training College, Community Health Worker (CHW) Training, and trade courses. Under my leadership, Bulolo District has invested almost K250,000.00 in 33 students at Balob Teachers College this year,” Mr Basil said.
Since its inception in 2010, the Bulolo Corporate Basil Scholarship (BCBS) has successfully graduated over 300 teachers, who have since returned to serve in the remote villages of Bulolo and Wau Waria.
Bulolo District Administrator Joe Paru emphasized the importance of the program, noting, “We remain committed to continuing this initiative annually. There is a persistent demand for teachers in the district, especially in remote areas, although institutional capacity limits our intake. I urge our students to embrace this opportunity and excel in their studies.
“Bulolo District has fully covered the tuition fees for every student, and I expect outstanding performance from each of you. Reports of students skipping classes or engaging in drug and alcohol use on campus will not be tolerated,” Mr Paru said.
Deputy Principal of Balob Teachers College Jack Hawap recognized that Bulolo District has the highest number of corporate scholarships compared to other districts, highlighting the enduring support and commitment shown by the BDDA.
This year, the BCBS benefits 13 first-year students, 6 second-year students, and 14 third-year students, with each student receiving nearly K7,000 towards their tuition fees.
The program also honors the contributions of Late Sam Basil Snr. and Late Mrs. Malinda Bill, the former accountant of Balob Teachers College, whose roles were pivotal in establishing a program that significantly benefits rural communities across the Bulolo District.