Goroka set for Book Week

The National Education

This year’s National Book Week will be launched in Goroka, Eastern Highlands, today with the theme “Upgrade your knowledge (IQ) – read”.
The National Book Week slogan reflects the increasing importance of books, reading, libraries and literacy upgrading and acquiring one’s knowledge for educational and recreational purposes.
National Book Week is held annually to instil in PNG learners the love and appreciation for books, develop reading and literacy skills and promote the use of libraries.
Director general of the National Libraries and Archives Kakaito Kasi said in support of the Government’s focus on improving the overall quality of education, The National Library, Archives and Records Services (NLARS) has a 10-year strategic plan (2016 – 2025) which plans to revive all library and archival services in the provinces and districts.
The plan aims to provide a greater access to NLARS information services, to develop and improve the NLARS human resource capabilities, knowledge and skills and to develop and implement key policies and directives for a sustainable, fair, equal and quality distribution of NLARS.
Kasi called on all MPs and provincial governments to plan, organise, implement and operate a library and archive service in their provinces.
He said National Book Week was celebrated annually to encourage a culture of reading, to foster life-long learning and to enable greater access to information.
“An educated population with access to information will be able to contribute meaningfully to the development of this nation,” he said.
“So you must upgrade your knowledge – grab a book and read.”
Activities that will be taking place in NCD during includes the National Book Week NCD secondary school quiz competition which will involve interested secondary schools, school visits, library tours and a Book Fair which will be held a week after National Book Week.
In Goroka, there will be debates, quiz competitions and displays of poetry, short stories, art and a book fair that will be staged on Aug 9.
The launching will be held at Peace Park.
Kasi also extended his sincere appreciation to the Eastern Highlands government, the Teachers and Savings and Loans Society and Oil Search Foundation for their assistance in supporting the National Book Week planned activities.