This is not the first time that Port Moresby Nature Park conducted educational programs for schools in NCD, and the Culture Connects Program is one of many examples. The 3-week program which began on August 12th, International Youth Day, was created to educate children on traditional practices which are not easily taught and practiced due to many children growing up in urban areas. Port Moresby Nature Park Education Manager, Shirley Mogi, describes the program as ‘taking a walk back in time’. “It was designed to reintroduce kids to certain cultural practices that help to conserve or sustain the natural environment.” “We are taking a closer look into the cultural practices carried out by our ancestors.” She explained that when Papua New Guineans discontinue their cultural practices, it results in having a lack of respect towards nature. “Our ancestors had rich knowledge about nature; they read the tides, could understand the times and seasons – nature provided their needs and thus, they developed respect towards their environment.” “Presently, however we just wipe out whatever resources we can lay our hands on, not caring about the consequences.” Roughly six (6) schools have already participated in the program and about 1, 700 students were educated. Despite having to postpone some trips due to bad weather, student numbers have skyrocketed. Mogi explained that every three years, topics taught in Culture Connects are revised and new topics are introduced. “This year's topics include, sacred sites, traditional medicine, taboos & customs and traditional tools – these are the stalls the children visit to learn more.” “Last year was our final year learning about traditional patterns and designs, traditional weaving, traditional money and traditional music.” Mogi encouraged more individuals, groups and organizations to participate in Culture Connects. “We do not only reach out to schools, we communicate with church groups, youth groups and community groups as well.” She also expressed her gratitude towards NCD Transport for helping to transport children and Sir Brian Bell Foundation for subsidizing students' fees. Culture Connects will end on August 30th, 2024.