National Book Week in PNG: Fostering a Culture of Reading and Learning

Every year in August, Papua New Guinea (PNG) hosts a remarkable educational event known as National Book Week. Since its inception in 1980, this event has been celebrating the profound significance of books and reading as sources of both learning and enjoyment. 

Organised by the PNG goverment through the Office of Libraries and Archives, the National Book Week serves as a platform to encourage people of all ages, especially children and youths, to immerse themselves in the enriching world of literature. 

With an array of thought-provoking themes over the years, the PNG National Book Week strives to inspire individuals to read, grow, and create- fostering a culture of literacy and imagination.

Themes of PNG National Book Week

Each year, National Book Week in PNG revolves around a unique theme that encapsulates the core essence of the event. These themes mirror the broader objectives of the country's educational initiatives and the transformative potential of reading. 

Here are the themes that have shaped the event in recent years, presented in ascending order:

2017 - Libraries for National-Building:

This theme emphasized the pivotal role of libraries as essential institutions for societal development. It underscored the significance of accessible information in propelling progress within the nation.

2019 - Upgrade Your Knowledge (IQ):

Focusing on enhancing intelligence and knowledge, this theme accentuated the power of books in driving personal growth and intellectual development.

2020 - Creating Greater Access to Information through Libraries:

Aligned with the goal of making information universally accessible, this theme highlighted libraries as gateways to knowledge and empowerment.

2021 - Lockdown, Stay Safe, Read Books:

In response to the global pandemic's challenges, this theme encouraged reading as a source of solace, learning, and personal growth during uncertain times.

2022 - Choose Your Destiny - Read: 

Centered around the power of choice, this theme emphasized how reading empowers individuals to shape their own destinies by embracing diverse perspectives.

2023 - Click on a Book, Pick a Book:

Encouraging the integration of the digital age, this year's theme celebrated the timeless joy and inspiration found within both traditional and digital reading experiences.

PNG National Book Week 2024

Last year's (2023) delay in theme release created challenges for teachers and students, highlighting the importance of timely communication. 

In 2023, the themes "Click on a Book, Pick a Book" and "Read, Grow, Inspire" caused confusion due to their simultaneous circulation. This underscored the need for enhanced coordination.

This year, the focus is on transparency and preparedness. The theme for 2024 will be announced well in advance to ensure educators and participants have ample time to engage creatively. 

Why not make suggestions for the 2024 theme in the comment below!

National Book Week in PNG stands as a beacon of inspiration, inviting people of all ages to embrace the world of literature. By nurturing a passion for reading among children and youths, we lay the foundation for a future of knowledge, creativity, and growth. 

Empowering Local Writers and Bloggers: A Call to Action

As National Book Week continues to ignite the passion for reading, it's crucial to further nurture local literary talent. 

The PNG government should take a proactive role in supporting and promoting local writers and bloggers. 

By providing platforms, funding, and recognition for their works, the nation can cultivate a diverse and vibrant literary landscape that reflects its unique culture and experiences.

Engaging Local Talent with Schools and Teachers

To truly instill a love for reading, writing, and creativity, collaboration between National Book Week and educational institutions is imperative. 

This collaboration could involve hosting writing workshops, author visits, and interactive sessions between local writers and students. 

By connecting local talents with schools and teachers, the event can inspire the next generation of readers and writers, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and experiences.

PNG Government Improve Library Services

While National Book Week celebrates the magic of reading, it's essential to address the state of libraries in PNG. The government should take on the challenge of enhancing library services across the nation. 

This includes modernising library facilities, expanding collections, and providing resources that cater to various age groups and interests.

A robust library network empowers communities, especially in remote areas, by granting access to knowledge, fostering learning, and igniting imaginations.

Conclusion - National Book Week in PNG

The event's themes reflect the evolving landscape of education and technology while celebrating the timeless joy of reading. As we move forward into the upcoming years of National Book Week, let's celebrate the transformative power of books and writing, cultivating a culture of lifelong learning and expansion of horizons. 

The journey ahead includes empowering local writers, engaging with schools, and challenging the government to uplift library services, paving the way for a more literate and enlightened society in Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea National Education Act 1983 Review, Education System Fit For The Country And Its People

Commentary

Papua New Guinea National Education Act 1983 review cannot come at the right time. The education department has to be complimented for reviewing the Act. 

Sections of the Act needed thorough scrutiny and update. Take a look at one example here - Section 4 on Objects of the National Education System:

'(1) (b) to develop and encourage the development of a system of education fitted to the requirements of the country and its people'  

In fact the country's requirements are different after 40 years. Population was not over 7 million in the years leading up to 1983. Government policies on national and local education provisions were not the same compared to yester-years. Many policies have changed like tuition free fee policy and education reforms. Economy is expanding. Literacy rate is low. Skills shortage is a concern. 

Inevitably, how can NDoE and National Education Board strike a balance in this Review? How can NDoE and NEB make sure this Act of parliament meets country's requirements and the needs of its people?

The Act is a legal framework that gives substance to the whole education system - it holds every sections within the education system like a skeleton is to the body. There is urgent need to update the National Education Act 1983. It must be done promptly and thoroughly.

Perhaps it is important this review takes into account changes that are taking (have taken) place since education reforms of the early 1990s. This includes considering the high number of dropouts, curriculum changes, structural changes, increasing population, changing government policies and everything that would make education fit for all.

Another point worth mentioning is correlation between Ganim Report and Review of Education Act. The report's 12 recommendations have direct bearing on Functions of National Department of Education and Teachers Service Commission (Section 29 of the Act).

It is only proper that the National Education Board considers this review urgent. NEB must analyse draft by May. NDoE, NEB and Education Minister must aim to see the act passed by Parliament before the year ends. This review has to take precedence among other changes. 

BY SHIRLYN BELDEN [Post Courier 26/02/2015]

THE Education Department expects to have the first draft of the Education Act review handed over to the national education board by May this year, Secretary Michael Tapo has confirmed.

"The review will be given to the board after we’ve checked all pros and cons.

"The full process to obtain complete legal status for the reviewed Education Act before it’s a law, or before it can be debated in Parliament, is not yet clear," Mr Tapo said.

The legislation was created in 1983 and had been used by the department since.

Works on the review started last year with four regional consultations already carried out with assistance from the Law Reform Commission and various government departments.

Mr Tapo said the Education Department was working with partners and stakeholders to complete consultations and draft documentations.

The reviewed act will then go to the national education board, which is the agency in charge of education system.

He said the department has planned to complete all works on the review draft by the end of this year so it can be presented to Parliament.

Mr Tapo said review of the 1983 Act has been a long standing issue, which the department has been contemplating on carrying out to provide a well challenged, quality and improved education system and structure for Papua New Guinea.

"We have to review the Act as the country is maturing, we need to develop education laws to the current demand and context of our society and circumstances. We need more qualified teachers.

"The school system has changed, a lot of people and organisations now want to build new schools, therefore, in order to administer and manage education efficiently, we need to understand that," he said.

Mr Tapo said the review was timely because the demand, expectations and context on how to administer education in the country have changed, giving the need to cater for these changes.