It has been a good year for the Department of Community Development, Youth and Religion, says Secretary Anna Solomon.
Despite being one of the lowest funded agency, Solomon says it has seen a lot of achievements in the year.
The department has seen many inaugural programs, including; the first public service dedication service, the first men’s forum which saw men establishing their role in addressing gender-based violence and the first Children’s forum where representatives from top schools in PNG talked about their (children’s) social challenges.
She said 2018 looks brighter. For the first time, there’s a budget for gender-based violence – K2m, child protection – K2m and people living with disabilities – K2m.
“A lot of budget has been given to us, and it’s because of all the social issues that have affected our country,” she said.
“We never had those budgets before. These are very important groups of people.
“If we can raise their standard of living, we have done our work in PNG.”
Another K10m has also been allocated specifically for awareness on social issues like sorcery related accusations that are leading to tortures and killings.
The department will also get K10m budget for the churches.
Solomon said for awareness, the department will be utilising all the partners available, especially the church.