**Expanding Education Access in Rural Areas: PHC Inaugurates Two New Schools in Lokutu, Tshopo Province**
**Who:** Plantations et Huileries du Congo (PHC)
**What:** Inaugurated two new schools in Lokutu, Tshopo Province
**Where:** Lokutu, Tshopo Province, DR Congo
**When:** December 30th and 31st, 2024
**Why:** To provide quality education to rural communities and improve living conditions
**How:** Fully funded the reconstruction and modernization of the schools
In a remarkable display of commitment to education, Plantations et Huileries du Congo (PHC) recently inaugurated two brand new schools in Lokutu, Tshopo Province, DR Congo. The inauguration ceremonies took place on December 30th and 31st, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to expand education access in rural areas.
### PHC’s Educational Initiative in Lokutu
The two schools, the Bolingo Secondary School in the Mwando group and the Ngima Primary School in the Bolombo group, have been completely rebuilt and modernized by PHC. These public schools are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including six classrooms with 20 desks each, administrative offices, and sanitary facilities that meet current standards.
### Impact on Local Communities
The new schools will provide quality education to a total of 480 students, a pivotal moment for these rural communities that often face significant challenges, such as the lack of adequate educational infrastructure. This initiative reflects PHC’s vision, led by Madame Monique Gieskes, the company’s CEO, to ensure equitable and quality education for all children in the remote areas where the company operates.
### Gratitude from Community Leaders
During the inauguration ceremonies, community leaders expressed their profound gratitude for PHC’s investment in education. Mr. Jean Badé Bombula, chief of the Mwando group, emphasized the importance of the Bolingo Secondary School, stating that it will allow children to pursue their studies in better conditions without having to travel long distances. Likewise, Mr. Michel Bolonga, chief of the Bolombo 1 group, praised the Ngima Primary School as a symbol of progress for their community.
### PHC’s Ongoing Impact
PHC’s commitment to improving the quality of life for local communities is further exemplified by its sustainable investments in critical sectors like education. With 28 schools already built and equipped and 9 more under construction, over 7,000 children from rural areas have gained access to education, laying the foundation for a promising future.
In conclusion, PHC’s dedication to placing education at the forefront of its priorities ensures that even the most remote areas of the country have essential infrastructure to foster the development of future generations.
*Random Humanizing Touch:*
Imagine a young girl named Amina living in one of these rural communities in Lokutu. Before the inauguration of the new schools, she had to walk long distances every day to attend classes in a dilapidated building with limited resources. Now, with the opening of the modern Bolingo Secondary School, Amina’s journey to education is transformed. She has access to quality facilities and a conducive learning environment that inspires her to dream big and pursue her aspirations. Thanks to PHC’s investment in education, Amina and many children like her have a brighter future ahead.