Part 1: Humble Beginnings — The Birth of a Dream (2014)

In 2014, with just K300 in his pocket, a broken old laptop, and a single USB flash drive, a young man named Shane Chinau made a decision that would change his life — and one day impact thousands of students across Papua New Guinea.At the time, Shane didn’t have an office, a team, or investors. What he did have was a big dream and an unshakable belief that technology could transform education in PNG. He saw a future where even the most remote schools could access knowledge, not through expensive internet connections, but through offline digital solutions that anyone could use.

Walking the Streets of Lae with a Vision

Shane started by walking from school to school in Lae City, knocking on principals’ doors to offer computer repair services and small ICT presentations.

Most days, he carried his laptop and flash drive in his backpack, ready to fix computers, install programs, or show how an offline e-library could work. There were days he went hungry, spending his last few kina on bus fares or printer ink just to get his proposals ready. Many people doubted him. Some laughed. Others simply said “come back later.” But Shane refused to give up.

The 24-Foot Container — His First Office

Behind his parents’ house sat an old 24-foot shipping container that was once used as a small family canteen. When the canteen stopped operating, Shane asked his parents if he could use the container as his “office. "It was hot during the day, dark at night, and had no proper furniture. But for Shane, it was his headquarters. He cleaned it out, set up a small table, plugged in his broken laptop, and started working. From this humble container, Chayil Information Technology began to take shape.

Fixing Computers to Build a Company

To survive and raise funds, Shane began repairing computers, installing basic software, and helping teachers and schools with ICT problems. He charged small fees, carefully saving every kina. Bit by bit, his savings grew. After months of perseverance, Shane finally had enough money to register his business with the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA).And so, with faith, grit, and K300, Chayil Information Technology Ltd was officially born.