Mamarapha College has received support from churches across Australia to fund new buildings for administration and staff.

In 2022, mission offerings were taken up to fund the building of two general early learning areas, a computer lab, a student area, as well as the refurbishment of the administration block at the college.

Mamarapha first opened its doors to Indigenous students in 1997 for those wanting to receive training in Gospel ministry. Since then, more than 1,500 students have graduated and are serving in remote areas as well as large urban cities.

The new General Learning Area (GLA) facilities are designed to cater to the growth trend in enrollment and provide additional space to deliver new vocational courses in the future.

The GLA was designed by specialized educational architects to provide a quality learning environment and delivery to a larger cohort of students compared to the old classroom capacity.

The administration building has now been fitted with much-needed storage space, additional offices, a staff workroom, and a Faith FM studio. The new buildings and office have been in operation since early 2023, with the final addition of a radio tower yet to be completed.

According to Pastor David Garrard, Mamarapha principal, these new developments have created much excitement for students and staff.

“Many students have commented on the computer lab, which is now three times larger compared to the previous one.” He continued, “Staff have expressed their gratitude for the extra room, new equipment, and furniture.”

Pastor Garrard added, “All staff and students consider it a great privilege to be part of this significant milestone in Mamarapha’s history. We are all praising God for making our dreams come true.”

Pastor Darren Garlett, Australian Union Conference (AUC) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ministries (ATSIM) director, said, “As a church, we value the work of God in the lives of people who have made a commitment to Him. Through Mamarapha College, we witness this transformation happening in the lives of students each year as they embark on the study program.”

Garlett continued, “Receiving financial support to enhance the facilities to make the Mamarapha experience even better is a real answer to prayer. We have a training center where people can learn, but it makes an impact as soon as they arrive on the campus.”

The opening of the new buildings is planned for May 2023.

The original version of this story was posted on the Adventist Record website.