The launching of the 29th National Literacy Week 2024, which was supposed to be held earlier this month from 2nd to the 6th of September, unfortunately did not occur due to multiple setbacks.
National Literacy Awareness Secretariat, Nicholas Nembo confirmed that the event was to be launched in Tari, Hela Province under the theme: ‘Be Literate! Be Counted! Leave No One Behind,’ but did not happen because of circumstances beyond their control.
“Literacy week activities around the country took place, however the main launching at Hela was deferred due to issues with logistics, staff recruitment and staff movement between divisions.”
He stated that the Department of Education is yet to confirm new launching dates.
“Once these issues are resolved, the dates will be confirmed.”
He also said that the launching will still take place in Hela.
In regard to the current literacy rates in the country, Nembo stated that Papua New Guinea’s current literacy rates have not been updated because of the National Census still happening.
“The National Census aids us in collecting data regarding literacy rates in the country.”
The literacy rate data from 2010 – 2011 is still being used at this time.