By JASON SOM KAUT
AFTER-sales product support for sewing machines is non-existent.
Very often, it was at the expense of the customer.
For those who make a living out of sewing, this can either lead to resourcefulness in fixing the machine to support their livelihood or to multiplying the problem and facing dim prospects.
Dressmakers and tailors had been stumped by minor problems and let sewing machines sit idle for ages, denying the family earning opportunities.
Seeing the need, Manasseh Nowatuwo, an instructor at Lufa Vocational School in Goroka, Eastern Highlands, said: “Businesses that sell sewing machines failed to do product follow-up and to fix machines with minor problems.”
He facilitated a week-long workshop on sewing machine maintenance and repair that saw 13 self-employed parents graduate with skills to repair sewing machines, a skill not known by many.
Sewing supported many PNG families and was an integral part of a large informal sector.
Highly-skilled sewers had ventured into deals with business houses that gave them good returns.
Mr Nowatuo said: “Many mothers knew how to sew but not many had the skills to maintain and repair sewing machines.”
He was approached by the Present Truth Ministry to run the workshop for some of its members along the Lae Speed Way.
Pr Livingstone encouraged his congregation to share their gifts and skills for their family and community to benefit.
“Do not hide your gift and do not be discouraged, but be open minded and show neighbourly love to help others … do and you will be blessed,” he said.
The only male participant appealed to other males to take up sewing.
“Sewing is OK, but fixing the machines is difficult and I challenge other males to take it up.”
Another participant, Daina Isaac was delighted with what she learnt.
“It’s a big change, machines can be easily fixed and continues to improve our lives,” Mrs Isaac said.