Supporting Ban on all School Banquet by Western Highland Provincial Education Board.

 

Supporting the Ban on School Banquet Parties in the Western Highlands Provincial Education Board

In recent years, the Western Highlands Provincial Education Board has considered the implications of school banquet parties, leading to a crucial conversation about their impact on the educational environment. This article supports the ban on such events, highlighting the potential benefits for students, educators, and the community.

1. Fostering a Focused Learning Environment

School banquet parties can distract students from their primary purpose: education. These events often shift attention away from academic pursuits, promoting a culture of socializing over learning. By banning banquet parties, schools can reinforce the importance of education and encourage students to engage more fully in their studies.

2. Promoting Inclusivity and Equality

Banquet parties can inadvertently create divisions among students based on socioeconomic status. Those who can afford to participate may enjoy lavish celebrations, while others feel excluded due to financial constraints. A ban would promote inclusivity, ensuring that all students feel valued and have equal opportunities to participate in school activities without the pressure of expensive events.

3. Reducing Behavioral Issues

School parties often lead to various behavioral problems, including substance abuse and misconduct. The presence of alcohol or other influences at these gatherings can pose risks to student safety and well-being. By eliminating banquet parties, schools can create a safer environment, reducing the likelihood of negative behaviors that can have long-lasting repercussions.

4. Encouraging Alternative Activities

Rather than traditional banquet parties, schools can focus on organizing educational and community-oriented events. Activities such as workshops, talent shows, or sports days can foster teamwork, creativity, and personal growth, aligning more closely with the educational mission. These alternatives can provide valuable experiences without the complications associated with banquet parties.

5. Strengthening Community Ties

By moving away from banquet parties, schools can invest in community-based events that engage families and local organizations. These activities can build stronger relationships within the community and emphasize the collaborative role of education in society. Such initiatives can showcase student achievements in a more inclusive and supportive atmosphere.

6. Encouraging Parental Involvement

Without the distractions of banquet parties, schools can focus on fostering parental involvement through regular meetings, workshops, and informational sessions. Engaging parents in the educational process is vital for student success, and by redirecting efforts, schools can create a more supportive network for students.

Conclusion

The ban on school banquet parties within the Western Highlands Provincial Education Board is a step toward fostering a more focused, inclusive, and safe educational environment. By prioritizing education and community engagement over social events, schools can better serve their students and prepare them for future success. Emphasizing alternative activities and parental involvement will create a stronger, more united community dedicated to the holistic development of every student.

STEM or STEAM Curriculum in PNG Education System.

 

What is STEM and STEAM? 

STEM and STEAM are educational approaches that focus on integrating specific disciplines to promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity among students.

STEM:

- STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

- It emphasizes these four fields to prepare students for careers in science and technology-related industries.

- The goal of STEM education is to develop students' abilities in critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving through hands-on learning and real-world applications. 

- STEM is highly relevant in today’s world as many industries, such as engineering, healthcare, and IT, require a strong foundation in these subjects.

STEAM:

- STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.

- It builds upon the STEM framework by adding the Arts to the equation, recognizing the importance of creativity and design in innovation.

- STEAM education encourages students to use both their analytical and creative skills, integrating artistic thinking with scientific and technical knowledge. The Arts component may involve visual arts, design, music, or other creative disciplines that help foster a more holistic learning experience.

- This approach aims to equip students with the ability to think across disciplines and apply creative solutions to complex problems.

In both STEM and STEAM, the focus is on interdisciplinary learning, equipping students with skills that are essential in today’s workforce and encouraging them to innovate, collaborate, and think critically. The addition of the Arts in STEAM highlights the importance of creativity in technological and scientific fields.

STEM in Papua New Guinea Education system.

The integration of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) into Papua New Guinea's education system is still in its developmental stages, but it has gained momentum in recent years. The government, alongside educational stakeholders, has recognized the need to prioritize STEM education to better prepare students for the demands of a rapidly changing, technology-driven world. However, the implementation of a full-fledged STEM curriculum faces several challenges, including resource limitations, infrastructure, and teacher training, especially in rural areas.

In urban centers, there has been more noticeable progress, with some schools piloting STEM-focused programs that emphasize hands-on learning and problem-solving skills. These programs are designed to spark interest in science and technology-related fields and to address the shortage of skilled workers in industries like engineering, information technology, and healthcare. Schools are gradually incorporating more practical applications of science and mathematics, fostering critical thinking and innovation among students. However, access to quality STEM education varies widely depending on the resources and infrastructure available in different regions. Currently the focus is only on National high school across the country. Few private schools have taken it on board and now implementing it in their school curriculum. 

A key challenge in expanding STEM education across Papua New Guinea is the lack of adequate teaching materials and properly trained educators, particularly in rural schools. Many teachers in the country have not received specialized training in STEM disciplines, making it difficult to fully integrate this curriculum into their teaching methods. Furthermore, schools in remote areas often lack access to the necessary technology, laboratories, and other resources needed to effectively teach STEM subjects. This disparity between urban and rural education remains a significant barrier to the nationwide rollout of STEM-focused learning.

Efforts are being made by the government and non-government organizations to improve STEM education in the country. Initiatives such as teacher training programs, school infrastructure improvements, and collaborations with international educational institutions aim to bridge the gap and make STEM more accessible to all students. Although the STEM curriculum in Papua New Guinea is still evolving, the growing emphasis on these subjects is a positive step toward equipping the next generation with the skills needed to participate in the global economy and tackle the country’s development challenges.

Ramu Independence Day Celebration 2024

 The Independence Celebration organized by the Human Resource Department of Ramu Agri Industries Limited is a vibrant and community-centered event that spans several days, starting with sports and culminating in a grand cultural showcase on the 16th of September. The festivities are designed to bring employees, their families, and the surrounding communities together in celebration of Papua New Guinea’s independence. The event kicks off on the 14th and 15th of September, with two days dedicated to sports competitions. These games foster team spirit, unity, and friendly competition among participants from different departments and regions, offering a fun and active way to commemorate the country’s independence.

The sporting events are an important part of the celebrations, reflecting the spirit of teamwork and cooperation that is vital to both the company’s success and the nation’s development. Employees participate in a range of sports, such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, and touch rugby 7s, with teams often representing different divisions or regional affiliations within the company. These activities not only promote physical fitness but also strengthen social bonds among employees, encouraging a sense of camaraderie and shared pride. The sports days set an energetic tone for the celebrations and bring the community together in a lively and inclusive atmosphere.

The main celebration takes place on the 16th of September, which begins with a formal and solemn flag-raising ceremony led by the local police force. This event serves as the centerpiece of the Independence Day celebrations, symbolizing the unity and sovereignty of Papua New Guinea. The national flag is hoisted while the national anthem is sung, and speeches from company officials and community leaders often emphasize the importance of independence and the role of each individual in contributing to the nation’s growth. The involvement of the police adds a sense of dignity and formality to the occasion, reminding everyone of the significance of the day.

Following the flag-raising ceremony, the celebrations shift to a vibrant display of PNG’s cultural diversity, with performances of traditional singing and dancing from the four major regions of the country: the Highlands, Momase, Southern, and New Guinea Islands. Employees, their families, and local community members dress in traditional attire and take part in these performances, showcasing the unique customs, music, and dances of their respective regions. This cultural display highlights the richness of PNG’s heritage, celebrating the unity in diversity that defines the nation. The performances are not only entertaining but also serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring the traditions of Papua New Guinea.

The entire event, from the sports days to the cultural performances, fosters a deep sense of national pride and unity among the participants. By combining physical activities, formal ceremonies, and cultural celebrations, Ramu Agri Industries Limited’s Independence Celebration serves as a meaningful way for employees and the community to come together in honor of the nation’s independence. The event strengthens the bonds between people from different backgrounds and regions, reinforcing the shared identity and values that unite Papua New Guinea as one nation.

Independence Day Celebrations in PNG schools

 

The 16th of September marks a significant day in Papua New Guinea (PNG) as the country celebrates its independence, which was achieved in 1975. Schools across PNG play a central role in commemorating this national event, with celebrations that highlight the nation’s rich cultural heritage, history, and unity. Independence celebrations in schools provide an opportunity for students to learn about the significance of independence and to reflect on the journey PNG has taken as a sovereign nation. These celebrations typically involve a range of activities, including flag-raising ceremonies, traditional performances, and educational programs designed to foster national pride.

A key feature of the Independence Day celebrations in schools is the flag-raising ceremony, which symbolizes the sovereignty and unity of the country. Students, teachers, and community members gather for this formal event, where the national flag is hoisted while the national anthem is sung. This solemn moment is often accompanied by speeches from school leaders, local officials, and invited guests who highlight the importance of independence and the role of young people in shaping the future of the nation. The flag-raising ceremony serves as a reminder of the struggles and efforts that led to PNG’s independence and reinforces the values of patriotism and national unity.

Another integral part of the celebrations is the showcasing of Papua New Guinea’s diverse cultures. Students are encouraged to wear traditional attire representing their respective provinces and participate in cultural performances such as dances, songs, and dramas. These performances not only celebrate the vibrant cultural diversity of PNG but also teach students to appreciate the rich heritage of their country. The cultural displays often involve traditional instruments, dances like the sing-sing, and performances that depict historical events or legends. Through these activities, students gain a deeper understanding of the various cultural groups that make up the nation and the importance of preserving these traditions.

In addition to cultural celebrations, schools also incorporate educational programs into their Independence Day activities. Teachers use the occasion to educate students about the history of Papua New Guinea’s independence, including the key figures and events that led to the country's freedom from Australian colonial rule. These lessons often focus on the significance of self-governance, national identity, and the responsibilities of citizenship. By integrating these lessons into the celebrations, schools aim to instill a sense of pride and responsibility in the younger generation, helping them understand their role in contributing to the nation's future.

The Independence Day celebrations in schools foster a sense of national pride and unity among students. Through the combination of ceremonial events, cultural performances, and educational activities, students gain a deeper appreciation for their country’s history and the importance of independence. The involvement of the wider community in these celebrations also strengthens the connection between schools and local communities, reinforcing the shared values of unity, diversity, and national pride. As PNG continues to evolve as a nation, these celebrations serve as a reminder of the country’s past achievements and the ongoing journey towards a prosperous and united future.

Life of a teacher in Rural Papua New Guinea

 

Life for a teacher in rural Papua New Guinea presents a unique set of challenges and rewards. Teachers in these remote areas often work in small, isolated communities, far from urban centers and modern conveniences. The infrastructure is often underdeveloped, with limited access to transportation, communication, and healthcare services. As a result, teachers are not only responsible for educating students but also serve as key community figures, often taking on multiple roles such as advisors, counselors, and role models. The lack of resources, such as textbooks, teaching materials, and technology, adds to the complexity of teaching in these areas, requiring a high degree of creativity and adaptability from educators.

Despite these difficulties, many teachers in rural Papua New Guinea find their work incredibly rewarding. The relationships formed with students and their families are often deeply personal, as teachers play a significant role in shaping the futures of young people in these tight-knit communities. There is a profound sense of purpose that comes from teaching in rural areas, as the education provided can be a life-changing force for students. Teachers in rural PNG have the unique opportunity to impact not just individual students but entire communities, helping to uplift future generations by providing them with essential skills and knowledge.

However, the challenges of teaching in rural areas also extend to the personal lives of the teachers. Many face isolation due to the geographical remoteness of their postings. This isolation can be emotionally taxing, as teachers are often far from their families and support networks for extended periods. Access to professional development opportunities is also limited, making it difficult for teachers to further their education or stay updated with the latest educational methodologies. Furthermore, rural teachers often live in basic housing conditions and may lack access to clean water, electricity, and reliable internet, which adds to the daily hardships they face.

In response to these challenges, there has been growing recognition of the need to support rural teachers more effectively. Government and non-government organizations have been working to improve conditions for rural educators by providing more resources, professional development opportunities, and incentives such as hardship allowances. For many teachers, the personal and professional rewards of working in rural Papua New Guinea outweigh the challenges, as they take pride in contributing to the education and development of some of the most underserved communities in the country. Through their dedication, they help bridge the educational divide between rural and urban areas, ensuring that children in even the most remote corners of Papua New Guinea have access to quality education.

My Education journey as a teacher

MEDL students with lectures at DWU

                                           My education journey as a primary school teacher. My advice to new upcoming teacher, learning and upskill your skills as a teacher. 

Achieving your educational goal as a student teacher, beginning with a Diploma from Teachers College, sets the foundation for a lifelong commitment to learning and professional growth. The experience at Gaulim Teachers College equips you with the essential pedagogical skills and classroom management techniques needed to effectively teach in primary schools. This initial qualification also helps you develop a strong understanding of student needs, curriculum planning, and instructional strategies that are crucial for your career as a teacher.

Transitioning from your diploma to a bachelor’s degree in Education at Divine Word University offers an opportunity to deepen your expertise and broaden your understanding of educational theories, research, and leadership. At this stage, you will gain more specialized knowledge in areas such as educational psychology, curriculum development, and assessment. The bachelor's program will also prepare you for more significant roles within schools, including leadership positions or specialized teaching areas. Furthermore, this qualification opens doors to pursue further studies and allows you to contribute more meaningfully to educational reforms and advancements in your community.

Pursuing a master’s degree in Education from Divine Word University is the another step in your educational journey, providing the highest level of expertise in the field. This degree will enhance your research skills and allow you to explore advanced topics like educational leadership, policy development, and inclusive education. A master's degree not only positions you as an expert in your field but also allows you to influence education systems at a national or international level. It signifies a commitment to improving education for future generations and enables you to mentor other educators while contributing to the academic and professional landscape in Papua New Guinea and beyond.