Local happy with training

 By SHEILA MALKEN
A LOT of women in Papua New Guinea are learning to sew to generate income for their families or start their own business.
Thirty-two women on the island of Simberi started a sewing group last year with the help of the Simberi Mining Area Association (SMAA).
The Simberi Women in Mining (SWIM) was fortunate enough to have a stall among others on the site to display some of their work.
SWIM president Magaret Lamangau said it was one of the opportunities given to local mothers to embrace their sewing skills.
“This is a privilege given to us mothers and so far the company (Simberi) has stepped in and helped sponsor electronic sewing machines and have also provided a sewing room,” Lamangau said.
She said three women were sent last month to Port Moresby for a month-long course on the basics of sewing and training how to use electric sewing machines.
One of the group members Priscilla Toluk said the training was not enough.
“I learnt a lot in this short period, especially using electronic machines, and being given the opportunity to explore the sewing skills I have,” Toluk said.
She said their first project was to sew a men’s shirt which was a challenge.
“I am happy to learn from the company and from our basic training we will be attached to the it to sew and do embroidery design on uniforms,” Toluk said.