Adult literacy opens doors

Twenty-eight people from Aitape District in West Sepik Province now have the opportunity to secure employment and further their education following the successful completion of an adult literacy course.

The course was delivered by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Papua New Guinea as part of the Papua New Guinea-Australia Decentralisation and Service Delivery Partnership.

"We are pleased to be working with Papua New Guinean churches to address low literacy rates in the country. We know this is a major barrier to employment and development,” said Brendan Peace, Counsellor from the Australian High Commission.

The literacy curriculum was developed by ADRA PNG in collaboration with the Sonoma Adventist College and Seventh-Day Adventist Papua New Guinea Union Mission.

The first curriculum module is taught in Tok Pisin and consists of four main subjects; language, numeracy, social inclusion and Christian education. The second module is currently being developed and will be taught in English. Those who completed the first module will be encouraged to enrol for the second, which will also be open for new intakes.

Since November 2017, 35 adult literacy trainers have been trained, resourced and supported to deliver the literacy program throughout the country. So far, 86 adult learners have participated in the program and graduated with improved literacy skills.

Under the Papua New Guinea-Australia Decentralisation and Service Delivery Partnership, Australia supports churches to improve their capacity to promote gender equity and social inclusion, deliver crucial health and education services, build peace and prosperity and reduce the risks of natural disasters.

(From L-R: Education Manager for Lumi District Administration, Aitape, Job Tomur, graduate Eli Pumeapa and Bernard Paru – SDA/ADRA National Literacy Coordinator)

Author: 
Press release