On World Book and Copyright Day, as the world celebrates the power of books, the Governments of Papua New Guinea and Australia are opening pathways to quality education.
Both governments are working together to place essential learning materials in the hands of students in the most remote communities.
Through the Partnerships for Improving Education (PIE), PNG and Australia have distributed more than 207,000 student books and almost 13,000 teacher guides, reaching almost 2,000 schools and more than 160,000 students.
The books have been delivered to elementary schools in Sandaun, Central, Enga, and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, helping ensure students and teachers in remote communities have access to the materials they need to support effective teaching and learning.
Kaipu Elementary School teacher-in-charge, Mrs Margaret Manda, said her school, in the remote Kompiam District of Enga Province, has long faced challenges accessing student books and teacher guides. She is grateful for the support, noting the value of having both student and teacher resources available.
In Bougainville, Voniskopo Elementary School teacher-in-charge Mrs Jacinta Simea, said the student books and picture dictionaries are age-appropriate and make learning to read more engaging and enjoyable for students.
A fellow teacher of Komambus Elementary School, Mr Paeo Kipalya , said that books are the heart of any classroom and are key to helping students develop reading and comprehension skills. He expressed his appreciation for the continued support to education for children across Papua New Guinea.
On World Book Day, 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.
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Reading empowers, inspires, and opens doors to a brighter future for every child.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100