The Majuro Deaf Education Center (MDEC), located on the Marshall Islands High School campus, celebrated a groundbreaking ceremony last week for a new basketball court. This project is made possible through the funding support of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the collaborative efforts of the Public School System.
MDEC is a pioneering institution in the Marshall Islands, dedicated to providing specialized education and resources for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.
The new basketball court will offer students a dedicated space to engage in sports, promoting physical health, teamwork, and confidence. Basketball fosters motor skills, coordination, and social connections — key elements in student development.
“We’re all together here and we’re able to create a place for community where you can come together, have fun together, engage in learning together, improve your health together, and most importantly to have joy together as a community,” said Dr. Natalie Nimmer, Commissioner of Education. “We want your school to be a place of joy and happiness, because we know that when you’re happy and joyful, then you will be excited to come to school.”
“Beyond athletics, this court will serve as a platform for education beyond the classroom, teaching essential life skills such as discipline, perseverance, and collaboration,” said Minister of Education, Sports and Training Gerald M. Zackios. “It will create opportunities for interaction between students, teachers, and the broader community, helping to bridge gaps and promote inclusivity. Most importantly, it will be a place of joy, growth, and empowerment, where students can dream, achieve, and thrive.”
Elder Mark Nelson from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints emphasized the church’s global focus on education, health, and community development, particularly for underserved populations.
In a heartfelt sign language speech, Bilson Lamdrik, an MDEC student, expressed gratitude to landowners, PSS staff, parents, and most importantly to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for turning this vision into reality.