Project 8893

Kanite is a remote community in the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea with a population of 9,300. It is located far from any other towns or aid posts. For the last four years, the community has been operating three local language literacy schools (two primary and one adult) and a literacy resource centre without any outside support. Locals have used funds from community coffee gardens and canteens to support the schools, and teachers have volunteered their time – receiving only food as salary.

The community has seen great results from the training so far. Students who have completed the vernacular training achieve better results in government schools, which in turn gives them greater opportunities in life. The local community sees this training as a building block for vocational training that will help individuals and the local community. However, there are some challenging circumstances which make teaching difficult.

The buildings have gradually deteriorated and they no longer keep the rain and wind out. Teachers need more training and are currently unable to support their families because they do not have enough time to tend their gardens.

This project will provide modest salaries for teachers so they can support their families. It will also help with some basic repairs to the school buildings and provide the opportunity for teachers to complete training with SIL PNG. All this project needs to operate effectively is just A$5,200 per year for two years. Local community leaders will manage delivery of the project with support from local SIL PNG staff.