On June 29, a landmark handover ceremony marked the completion of major renovation works at two public schools in Leliëndaal, Commewijne, Suriname, transforming learning conditions for nearly 300 students and teaching staff. The project, carried out by Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. (Suriname State Oil) as part of the company’s 45th anniversary corporate social responsibility program, injected approximately 5.2 million Surinamese dollars into upgrading the H.M. Bielkeschool (GLO) and Saliminschool (MULO), coinciding with the H.M. Bielkeschool’s own 105th founding celebration.
Before the renovation, deteriorating infrastructure at H.M. Bielkeschool had rendered many classrooms unfit for consistent use, forcing disruptions to daily classes for enrolled students. The comprehensive overhaul addressed critical structural issues: the project team fully replaced the aging roof, damaged ceilings, crumbling interior walls, outdated doors and windows, and worn security mesh across campus. Additionally, the covered connecting walkway linking the two neighboring schools, which had fallen into dangerous disrepair, was also fully restored to safe working condition.
Speaking at a post-handover thanksgiving service, Cherida Kwasie, principal of H.M. Bielkeschool, expressed profound gratitude for the intervention. “Our school now shines again, it feels welcoming, and most importantly, it is a safe space for every person who learns and works here,” Kwasie said. “This effort has touched so many hearts, and we hope it inspires other organizations to continue investing in our schools and Suriname’s education sector as a whole.” Cheira Denswil, principal of Saliminschool, also shared her public appreciation for the completed works during the event.
The ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including Staatsolie Managing Director Annand Jagesar, representatives from the Commewijne District Commission, and board members of the Evangelical Brethren Community Education Foundation of Suriname, which oversees the institutions.
Staatsolie officials emphasized that the school renovation project forms one piece of a far broader 45th anniversary social investment initiative rolling out across the country. Beyond education-focused projects, the program also targets support for socially vulnerable groups, institutional capacity building, public recreation infrastructure, and community sports development. The company’s core goal with these education investments is to foster safe, motivating learning environments that empower Suriname’s young people to pursue long-term personal and professional growth.
As of the handover, a portion of the anniversary-themed community projects have been completed, with remaining works still ongoing. According to Staatsolie leadership, these initiatives reinforce the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its mission to deliver sustainable, long-term contributions to national development across Suriname.