In a landmark partnership aimed at addressing the critical issue of low literacy rates in Papua New Guinea, Lae Biscuit Company Ltd has collaborated with Buk Bilong Pikinini to establish a new library learning center in Lae, Morobe Province. This initiative underscores both organizations' commitment to community development and educational advancement. There is an urgent need for sustainable solutions to uplift the nation's educational standards as literacy rates in Papua New Guinea are at a concerning 63.5%, the lowest in the Pacific region. Buk Bilong Pikinini, has long been at the forefront of this mission, improving literacy among children. The collaboration with Lae Biscuit Company Ltd marks a crucial step forward in these efforts. Lae Biscuit Company Ltd, through the Chow Foundation, has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to giving back to the community. This latest venture reflects their core values and the foundation's ongoing dedication to making a positive impact. By providing the resources necessary to establish the new library learning centre. The project scoping commenced earlier this year with consultation of 5 elementary schools in Lae, Morobe Province prior to the selection of one school to set up the early learning centre. Schools consulted were St Philip Lutheran elementary, Butibam Elementary, Yanga Elementary, Four Mile Elementary & St Steven Elementary school in which St Steven Elementary school was selected based on project scope criteria. Managing Director and CEO of the Chow Foundation- Mr John Chow who was present at the ceremony expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership and hopes for the positive impact it will have on the community, especially for the children. “The Chow foundation believes in the power of education to transform lives, and we are committed to supporting initiatives that provide children with the tools they need to succeed.” “This library learning centre is a testament to our dedication to community development and our belief in the potential of every child.” “We are investing in the future of Papua New Guinea’s children and supporting Buk Bilong Pikinini's mission to create a literate and empowered generation.” “The new library learning centre in Lae will serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for countless children in the province, providing a safe and nurturing environment where young minds can explore the joys of reading and learning.” “The centre will be equipped with a diverse collection of books, educational materials, and resources tailored to enhance literacy skills and foster a love for reading among children.” “We are proud to partner with Buk Bilong Pikinini in this crucial endeavour and also thank the 5 schools who participated in the initial scoping of this project, the Provincial Division of Education office, St Steven Elementary Board of Management and the school representatives and everyone involved.” John Chow also highlighted the importance of addressing the literacy crisis in Papua New Guinea. "Improving literacy rates is essential for the growth and development of our nation. By working together with Buk Bilong Pikinini, we are taking a meaningful step towards creating a brighter future for our children." Leanne Resson, Executive officer representing Buk Bilong Pikinini, also stressed the important collaborative spirit and shared vision of the initiative with The Chow Foundation. The 5 consulting schools in Lae who were part of the initial project scoping will be donated a school library kit each to support the schools learning. The school library kit is made up of over 1,000 books per school which consists of; 200 Teacher reference books materials, 250 Picture books, 250 Books for children ages 6-12, 100 Readers (for emerging readers), 90 nonfiction books, 100 advance readers books, 10 dictionaries, Atlas & Encyclopedia and 13x BbP readers books - when I grow up series.” Anne-Sophie Hermann, Buk bilong Pikinini Founder and Vice-Chair expressed her delight in this partnership with Lae Biscuit and the Chow Foundation. "We are pleased to be partnering with Lae Biscuit and the Chow Foundation to be serving more Lae-based communities with our Early Childhood Education program as well as Awareness, Inclusive Education, After- School and Digital programs.” “We have witnessed a great demand from parents for our programs in Lae and will look forward to being able to cater for this most urgent demand.” “Children who have attended BbP’s program for one year enter school with confidence and are able to achieve great academic results thanks to their foundational literacy.” The groundbreaking ceremony, held at St Steven Elementary School in 3 mile, Lae was attended by representatives from the Chow Foundation, Buk bilong Pikinini, Morobe Provincial Education office and the St Steven elementary school board, teaching staff & students. The partnership between Lae Biscuit Company Ltd through the Chow Foundation and Buk Bilong Pikinini represents a shared commitment to fostering education and literacy in Papua New Guinea. It is a powerful example of how partnerships between corporate entities and non-profit organizations can drive positive change and create lasting benefits for our communities.