AFTER several years of being out of use due to termite infestation, the Science Laboratory at Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM)-owned Bishop Norman Palmer Anglican School in East Honiara, has been renovated and is back in service.
The renovation, which cost a total of SBD 300,000 SBD was completed towards the end of 2024, allowing the school to resume practical science experiments in the facility.
The school administration expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) for their prompt response to the school’s funding request.
Deputy Principal Wilson Mae, on behalf of ACOM, the School Board of Management, staff and students, thanked the ministry for its timely support.
Mr Mae, who also serves as a science teacher for Form 4 and Form 5, expressed satisfaction with the newly renovated laboratory.
“It’s a great pleasure to see our students conducting their science experiments in the right place. The science laboratory is a vital space at our school, equipping students with both the knowledge and practical skills needed for their academic success and future careers in the scientific field.”
He added that the lab, not only enhances learning through hands-on experiences, but also fosters critical thinking, problem-solving and curiosity.
“The laboratory prepares students for careers in science by developing skills such as observation, data analysis, and collaboration. It also instils a sense of responsibility and safety, helping students engage with science and make valuable contributions to new discoveries.”
Form 4 students recently completed their first Common Assessment Task (CAT 1) last Friday in the newly renovated lab.
According to the SBA schedule from the National Education Assessment Division (NEAD), the task is due for completion between weeks 6 and 8 of any academic year.
But Mr Mae emphasised the importance of the school completing the task on time as advised by NEAD to avoid last-minute delays and also to ensure quality submissions.
He said the school is excited to see students thrive in their upgraded laboratory environment, ready to take on new scientific challenges and experiments.
