Christmas came early for an exciting group of early learners today at the Dame Carol Kidu Early Learning Centre at Taurama Tutu Bay just outside the nation’s capital, when they were gifted with new reading books.
The United States’ State Department, through the Asia Foundation, generously funded the distribution of children’s books to Taurama and surrounding communities across Papua New Guinea.
These titles where written and illustrated by PNG & Pacific Island authors for Pacific Islanders, emphasizing the nation’s shared values and telling stories that will motivate young readers and encourage the love of reading.
United States Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock and the Asia Foundation formally presented the books to 10 communities at a reading event held at the Dame Carol Kidu Early Learning Centre.
“Thank you to the parents and community leaders for supporting this event. These books will be loved for years to come, helping children to become principled, engaged, and responsible members of your communities who uphold the values you hold most dear, such as the freedom of religion and the freedom to practice one’s faith,” said U.S. Ambassador Yastishock. “
This initiative brings together Pacific communities, local creatives, and community partners. Let's Read supports broader goals of improving early learning, nurturing cultural understanding, and expanding access to children’s literature created by and for Pacific communities.
Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of the Kidu family, Lana Davina thanked all partners for their support and for donating a vital resource that will contribute to the learning and development of each child at the centre.
Through this program, over 12,000 books will be distributed to schools and community partners across the Pacific, including Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu. The books are also translated into languages spoken across the region so to also preserve language and culture.
In addition to print distribution, all titles are now available on the Let’s Read digital library, home to more than 15,000 free children’s books in over 70 languages at letsreadpacific.org.
Download the Let’s Read app on any Android or iOS smartphone or tablet to access the full collection offline.
The U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby is proud to support the distribution of books to communities across Papua New Guinea, increasing access to educational materials while celebrating the shared values of the United States and Papua New Guinea.
