Morobe pilot project paves way for province-wide water and sanitation services improvement
What started as a targeted pilot project to strengthen water security in elementary schools in Morobe has become the province’s model for strengthening water service delivery.
For 35 elementary schools across Morobe Province, the 2026 school year opened with access to safe drinking water and new desks and chairs in their classrooms. This was made possible by the pilot Morobe Water Security Project, led by a provincial water security working group.
The Water Security Project is a partnership between the Morobe Provincial Administration and the Australian Government focused on improving institutional processes for better service delivery. The project supplied 98 water tanks as well as 1,050 desks to 35 primary schools in selected districts, benefiting students, school staff, and their local communities.
Morobe Provincial Administration Director of National Functions, Ms Fiona Gesa, acknowledged Australia’s support for the water security in the elementary school project.
“The lessons and experience this project committee has gained from the pilot project, which delivered water security and an improved learning environment to 35 schools in selected districts, will lead to long-term improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene practices across the province,” she said.
Community member and parent Ms Anna Gawi said the new water tanks have helped to address long running challenges.
“For more than a decade, we faced challenges in accessing clean water, especially for our children, women, and vulnerable people. The new water tanks are a genuine blessing and provide much needed relief for both the children and the community,” she said.
Through this joint investment, the Morobe Provincial Administration and the Australian Government are proving that strong institutional partnerships deliver life-changing results for schools, families, and the entire province.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100
Morobe Provincial Administration Director of National Functions, Ms Fiona Gesa (left), using one of the newly installed water tanks as a student looks on.