The Unity Library of Buka Association opened a new library today, much to the delight of its two thousand-plus members.
The library is part of the Autonomous Bougainville Government’s (ABG) Education Infrastructure Project Rollout. It was funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT) and project managed by Digicel PNG Foundation.
Built at a cost of K165,000, the library comes fully-kitted with desks, chairs, book shelves, air conditioning, connection to the main power grid as well as five desktop computers for electronic cataloguing and students’ use.
The completed library marks the achievement of a huge milestone for the ULB Association, which had its humble beginnings from just one box of books. The library now contains over 6000 reading materials available for lending to students, adults and the general public.
“The Association started off with only one box of books. We have come a long way to receive this incredible learning centre,” Unity Library vice-president, Robert Anisia, said.
“We are very excited and grateful to DFAT, ABG and Digicel PNG Foundation for sharing this vision with us and delivering this great infrastructure.”
The ABG Vice President, Raymond Manoso, and ABG Education Minister, Thomas Pata’aku, also attended the event and said the library will be a vital resource for young people to utilise and complement their learning.
Nicola Simson, second secretary for development cooperation (education) at the Australian High Commission, said the project was proof of a successful partnership.
“The Australian Government is happy to be assisting Papua New Guinea by partnering with Government stakeholders and other development partners such as Digicel PNG Foundation to bring such services to the people.
“The launch of the library is a successful example of the long-term partnership Australia has with Papua New Guinea and ABG and there are other education projects and program that are underway,” Simson said.
Digicel PNG Foundation CEO, Beatrice Mahuru, expressed that Digicel PNG Foundation was grateful to be part of the tripartite arrangement as partnerships are core to delivering development in a logistically challenged country like Papua New Guinea.
(Marlix Early Learning School students enjoy reading books at the Unity Library)