Partnership focuses on education

PROVIDING children with the opportunity to learn and develop is vital for their growth to be productive adults who are able to contribute to their family, community and nation, Oil Search Foundation (OSF) says.
“Education is the key to a successful future for individuals personally, and for communities and the country,” OSF said in a media statement.
Because of this, Oil Search Foundation has partnered Buk Bilong Pikinini, the provincial education division, schools, churches and community members to educate children in Hela’s Fugwa and Habare villages to read and write basic English.
“Through the partnerships, two literacy libraries were built in the villages and about 600 students aged between four and six had learnt to read and write in basic English in the last five years.”
A father from Fugwa shed happy tears when he heard his son read a book in English fluently for the first time during class. “We only speak our native Huli language, but today, as I watched my son confidently read, my heart is full of joy,” he said.
The children were also taught about good behaviour and manners, showing respect and were encouraged to teach others what they learn in school.
Habare Literacy Library teacher Pale Mbipe said: “This early childhood centre had positively impacted the lives of our community members.
“Fathers who thought it is the responsibility of a mother to take their children to school have changed their views.
“More fathers are bringing their children to class because they now understand the value it has for them and their families for the future.”
Mbipe said they were grateful for the support that OSF provided through Buk Bilong Pikinini in building the capacity of the teachers.