RAWA COMMUNITY SCHOOL HISTORY

During the 1980’s many people of the Martu nation, including the Manyjilyjarra, re-established themselves on their traditional lands after having been forced away by the Australian Government.  The return to Punmu and Kunawarritji was part of this movement.  Whilst the permanent restoration of Manyjilyjarra population at Punmu dates from December 1981, it was not until February 1983 that the school commenced with the assistance of Strelley School at Punmu and in Kunawarritji in 1993.  The original name of the school was “Panaka-Panaka” which was changed in mid-1984 to “Punmu School”.