A new Children’s Library at the Pacific Institute Leadership and Governance (PILAG) is now open to the public, giving local kids access to books, learning programs and modern technology.
To celebrate, more than 30 Port Moresby pre- and primary school children took part in open day activities, which included group reading, colouring, singing and exploration of books.
The open day marked the partnership between PILAG and Buk bilong Pikinini and was held ahead of International Literacy Day on Sunday 8 September.
The two organisations have joined forces to provide learning opportunities to local children, making full use of the facilities at the new Library, which was opened to the public in June and constructed through the PNG-Australia Partnership.
PILAG Chief Librarian Eric Nandoma said the collaboration with Buk bilong Pikinini is part of a broader vision to engage communities in the area.
“The revitalised PILAG remains committed to the development of public service leaders by providing vocational training to meet the nation’s needs,” he said.
“We know that these youngsters will one day grow-up and become the leaders of Papua New Guinea, so we need to do our best to give them opportunities to fulfil their potential.
“At PILAG we have a new, world-class library and it is our duty to provide an avenue for families and communities to be part of their children’s learning and development.”
Buk bilong Pikinini has established library learning centres with partners across Papua New Guinea – both in urban centres and regional areas.
Founder Anne-Sophie Hermann said working with PILAG is an excellent opportunity to provide children in the neighbourhood with learning opportunities and books to support their education.
“These centres help increase literacy rates, and foster a love of reading and learning in children,” she said.
“Access to books is an important aspect of a child’s overall development – it is the foundation for solid academic performance, and for socialising and managing all aspects of life.
“The language experiences that children have before they start school – like talking, singing and reading – form powerful brain connections, which are used for thinking and understanding.”
The PILAG Library allows children and adults to select from a large variety of books to suit their interests. Books can be borrowed free of charge, so anyone can access what they need for their education or enjoyment.
“We hope the children’s section will form a vital part of the PILAG Library where families and community members can come together to read and browse all the books on offer,” Ms Hermann continued.
“We are looking forward to supporting PILAG to run Buk bilong Pikinini’s early childhood literacy program for pre-school children.
“Through this program, five-year-old children will prepare for school and develop solid foundations in literacy, numeracy, cultural and health awareness, alongside learning to be disciplined and being respectful to others.”
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100
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