Five schools open new libraries

FIVE primary schools in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville are celebrating the opening of their libraries – thanks to the Australian government.
Australia is continuing to support the primary schools with new infrastructure through a public-private partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville government, the government and the Digicel Foundation. The primary schools are at Kepesia, Mungkala, Sipuru, Kekesu and Kavaronu.
Nicole Smith, the second secretary at the Australian High Commission, said one of Australia’s education priorities was to assist PNG improve its literacy and
numeracy outcomes of early learners.
She said literacy and numeracy were essential in the development of children. “A library is an important resource to have whether it be in a school or in the community as it supports children’s literacy and their learning,” Smith said.
“Research shows that a library that has a wide selection of books and other materials can both support literacy skills and help foster children’s love of reading.”