The Pikinini Kisim Save (PKS) project, managed by Care PNG and implemented by University of Goroka (UOG), made it possible for early childhood trainers to receive their Diplomas.
Recently 25 participants graduated with Bachelor under the IDFL School Management program whilst almost 300 graduated with Diplomas in Early Childhood Education.
A first for the three provinces of Chimbu, Jiwaka, and Mt Hagen; a good number of individuals, from a cross-section of early childhood providers, made the effort to make the day memorable.
Described as a double event, under the PKS project it was possible for early childhood trainers to receive not only their Diplomas but also the good news that they will now be finally on the government payroll.
Vice Chancellor Teng Waninga who was accompanied by two council members and his Chancellor, Joe Wemin, said that their certificates were timely.
“UOG has a policy of “bringing the gown to town” and we are doing that. We want to b visible. We want to show that we are interested in those who want to up-skill themselves as per the government prerogative,” he said.
“Do not limit yourself, continue to upgrade until you get your highest attainment.”
VC Waninga announced also that UOG was in partnership with the Department of Education (NDOE), to train TVET and ECE trainers starting sometime next year.
He reiterated that UOG had IDFL centers in all provinces except four with East New Britain and Jiwaka showing keen interest to have centers.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Department for Teaching and Learning with the School of Humanities, John Hagoiya, said that the two-year PKS program was now complete and many early childhood educators were now compensated for their hard work by such initiatives undertaken by the university.