More than 86 teachers from Goilala in Central Province have significantly strengthened their skills and confidence in fostering inclusive and safe learning environments, thanks to a recent comprehensive training initiative.
The recent training, a collaboration between the Central Provincial Division of Education, the Catholic Diocese of Bereina, the National Department of Education, and the Australian-funded Partnerships for Improving Education program, highlighted the importance of including every child in teaching and learning.
For educators in some of Papua New Guinea’s most remote schools, the experience was transformative.
Mr. Kanansio Kito, the teacher-in-charge at Kerau Primary School, noted that the training opened his eyes to drawing on policies more effectively.
“Before this session, I did not know much about GESI (Gender Equality and Social Inclusion) and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene).”
“I am now ready to implement these new policies,” said Mr. Kito, a 14-year veteran at the school.
Mr. Francis Paru, who has taught at Kivori Primary School for eleven years, described the training as transformative.
“The training showed me how to maintain a safe and hygienic environment for both school and community.”
He highlighted that the policies provided practical strategies for promoting equal participation in class and preventing the spread of illness, ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn.
This policy in-service, supported by Australia’s Partnerships for Improving Education program, has now reached over 700 teachers and almost 100 education officials acting as trainers.
The initiative has not only equipped teachers with critical knowledge but also empowered them to champion inclusive and safe education practices.
As these educators return to their classrooms, they are determined to share what they have learnt, foster equity, and nurture the potential of every student.
The Partnerships for Improving Education is a $75 million AUD, 5-year Australian Government program delivered through the PNG-Australia Partnership, focusing on supporting quality education for all children in the early grades (Prep – Grade 2).
