Senior officers from the Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR) recently visited Kundu International Academy to engage with and inform students about the department’s roles, policies, and initiatives.
David Nugi, the Provincial Coordinator for Southern Highlands and Simbu, emphasized that DFCDR operates within the social sector, focusing on protective and empowering programs aimed at vulnerable groups, including children, youth, individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and victims of gender-based violence and sexual assault.
As PNG approaches its 50th Independence anniversary, Nugi highlighted the department’s efforts to advance the Disability Service Bill and the Community Development Bill.
Additionally, Assistant Director of Informal Economy, Cecelia Wrondimi, clarified the differences between Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and the informal economy.
Research indicates that approximately K12bill remains unbanked in the informal sector, prompting the department to actively engage and empower those involved to ensure they pursue legitimate pathways.
She also agreed to offer financial literacy training for 28 grade 12 students, preparing them for potential business opportunities should they not gain admission to tertiary institutions.
The students actively participated in the session, posing questions that were met with informative answers.
School Principal Emmanuel Yawiapui expressed gratitude to DFCDR for their visit and expressed eagerness for future awareness and training going forward.