Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) officially launched its second Playground Project at the Vabukori Library Learning Centre (LLC) yesterday, marking another step in creating safe, engaging and child-friendly learning environments for young children.

The playground initiative was developed in response to the National Department of Education’s (NDoE) requirement for Early Childhood Education (ECE) providers to establish designated play areas for children.

This is BbP’s second playground following the successful development of its first playground at the 9-Mile Library Learning Centre.

Both playground projects were made possible through funding support from the Digicel Foundation, including a K50,000 community grant towards the Vabukori project. The projects were further supported by corporate and community partners who contributed materials, construction support, equipment, labour and technical assistance.

Major partners acknowledged include Digicel Foundation as the major funder, Sir Brian Bell Foundation as sponsor of the Vabukori Library Learning Centre, Vabukori Women’s Development Association (VWDA) for providing the space, Dulux for paint for obstacles, tyres and mural wall, Hex Constructions for construction of obstacles, Brian Bell for beach toys for the sandpit, NDoE for guidance to ensure alignment with ECE standards, the BbP Playground Project Team led by Mr Jericho Gideon for installation and mural development, Black Swan International for used tyres, and BNBM for building supplies and tools.

The playground was designed with colourful PNG animal themes, that provides an inviting space where learning and play take place together. The different play obstacles and activities are intended to encourage children to explore, develop physical skills, interact with others, and build confidence in a safe environment.

Adding to the excitement of the morning, the Dulux team brought their mascot, “Ollie” the dog, along with jellybeans for the children.

The playground was officially opened through a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Ms. Leanne Resson, Executive Officer of Buk bilong Pikinini, and Ms. Valda Kilangis Kereu, CEO of Digicel Foundation. Following the ceremony, children explored the new playground and enjoyed the various play obstacles and sandpit toys.

Ms. Resson said play is one of the most effective ways children learn.

“Play is one of the most effective ways children learn, helping them develop physically, socially, emotionally, and cognitively. A well-designed playground provides children with a safe and meaningful space to explore, build confidence, develop skills, and learn through play. Creating these opportunities requires the support of everyone, educators, families, communities, and partners,” she said.

“We acknowledge and thank Digicel Foundation for funding support for this playground project, Vabukori Women’s Development for providing this beautiful space, Sir Brian Bell Foundation for sponsoring the library, and all our partners for their continued support in creating better learning opportunities for children. Together, we can help our children learn, grow, and reach their full potential.”

Ms. Kereu said every child deserves a safe and engaging space to learn, play, and grow.

“Through our Community Grants Program, Digicel PNG Foundation is proud to contribute K50,000 towards this playground at Vabukori. Play is a powerful tool for learning, helping children develop skills, coordination, and confidence while encouraging creativity and social interaction. When combined with initiatives such as nutrition education, it helps lay the foundation for healthier, happier lives,” she said.

“We commend Buk bilong Pikinini for their commitment to supporting children’s development, learning and wellbeing.”

The successful completion of the Vabukori playground reflects what can be achieved when development partners, communities, and organisations work together to create meaningful opportunities for children.

Following the completion of its second playground project, BbP said it looks forward to continuing the initiative and establishing playgrounds across its 16 Library Learning Centres.