Both Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia are working closely to provide essential learning materials to remote communities across PNG.
Australia has distributed more than 207, 000 student books and almost 13, 000 guides for teachers. This support has reached a total of 2, 000 schools and more than 160, 000 students. The initiative was made possible through the Partnerships for Improving Education (PIE).
Elementary schools in the West Sepik, Central, Enga provinces and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville have received books to ensure students and teachers in remote communities are fostering effective teaching and learning.
Mrs. Margaret Manda, the Kaipu Elementary School teacher-in-charge in the Kompiam District of Enga province, notes that the lack of books and teacher guides has been an ongoing concern for the community. She expresses her sincere appreciation for the support, emphasizing the value of having both student and teacher resources available.
In Bougainville, Mrs. Jacinta Simea of Voniskopo Elementary School, explains that student books and picture dictionaries are age-appropriate and create an enjoyable and conducive learning environment for students.
Mr. Paeo Kipalya, a fellow teacher at the school, said that books are the heart of the classroom and key in helping students develop reading and comprehension skills. He expressed gratitude for the continued support to education for children across Papua New Guinea.
Communities are encouraged to make reading a regular and enjoyable part of children’s lives – at school and at home – by sharing and donating books, supporting local schools, and nurturing a love of reading.
