Papua New Guinea has a rich farming culture growing beautiful produce.
However, very few children have seen cows or modern green houses where technology plays an important part in growing the produce.
With the launch of “When I grow up – I want to be a Farmer” Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) is seeking to inspire children to consider a career in modern farming.
This week 5-year-old Joshua, dressed in a full farming outfit and with other BbP children got the opportunity to visit the 9 Mile Farm to see how the produce is grown and understand all about cows and what dairy products are.
BbP has published a series of books entitled “When I Grow up – I want to be a Teacher, – Pilot, – Store Manager, -Paramedic, – ICT Officer and – Farmer.
These new books were first launched during Book Week together with the Sir Brian Bell Foundation which has sponsored the printing and shipping of the readers.
A new set of readers are currently in production and will introduce a Banker, an Engineer, a Pastry Chef, a Nurse, a Pharmacist, a Heavy Equipment Operator and an Architect why photography by Roan Paul.
Leanne Resson, BbP Executive Officer said: “We are grateful to Ilimo and 9 Mile Farm for their support to provide the children with vital insight into the world of modern farming. The children are so excited about their visit and we hope to have many more opportunities for field trips which are so educational and inspirational for them. Thank you also for always assisting with our events and providing the children with healthy locally produced snacks to power their learning.”
Ilimo said: “In Papua New Guinea, teaching the next generation about the importance of local food & sustainability, and its impact on our future as a nation is vital – and has always been one the primary goals of Ilimo (under the Innovative Agro Industry group of companies). Through wonderful initiatives like this by Buk bilong Pikinini and other organizations, our children can learn and aspire to work in rewarding careers, especially in areas like food production and agriculture which have massive opportunities here in PNG.”
