THE Adakoa Rural Training Centre, in East Malaita, has a new classroom building thanks to the Government and People of Japan.

Guest speaker, Grass root coordinator from the Japanese Embassy in Honiara Ms Mariko officially handed over the $685,000-building to the school principal last Friday.

During the official handover programme Ms Mariko thanked the people of Adakoa for their commitment and time availed towards building the new building.

“We will be working together with communities that have visions like you in improving education clinics and other beneficiaries that would benefit communities.

“I stand here on behalf of the people of Japan to appreciate your job well done towards this project where we will be handed over to you today.

“The Japanese government will be working closely with the local communities in Malaita province and our country as a whole.”

According to Adakoa RTC School Principal, Jack Farobo, the handover marks a milestone and a new chapter in the history of the school, the east Malaita region and the province.

“We are more than thankful to have all of you here to witness with us the official handing over the new classroom project given to us with good heart by the Japanese people and their government.

“The Adakoa RTC was founded by the late Billy Farobo who had started the school when he saw the need for such institution in this part of the region.

“He began with local materials to show his concern and eagerness to have such venue for young people and those who cannot go further in their education academically.”

After school started 6 years ago, the old building was damaged by cyclone Pam in 2015.

The new building contains eight classrooms which will cater for all courses at the RTC, Farobo revealed.

Farobo also thanked the director of SIARTC, who is head of the association representing body of RTCs throughout the country, who endorsed the school to be able to receive the project from the Embassy of Japan.

He also thanked the Malaita education authority for their help in supporting the centre in the administration and empowerment of the staffs and giving information needed.

“The TVET department particularly has played a great vital role in the founding the school and pushing it forward for what it is today.”

He also thanked Hon Manasseh Maelanga for his financial support every year.

He also extended his appreciation to the provincial member for ward 16 in East malaita Hon Finley Fiumae for his support.

The Adakoa RTC currently offers eight courses; Carpentry, Joinery, Electrical, Plumbing, Home Economics and Tourism, Business and mechanics.

Farobo added that there are 70 students attending the school this year.

Adakoa RTC is located in ward 16 in East Malaita.