Australian Grant of Over K50,000 Boosts Buk bilong Pikinini’s St Steven Library Learning Centre in Lae

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) proudly celebrated the first-ever Graduation Ceremony of its Lae St Steven Library Learning Centre (LLC), marking a milestone in early learning for the children and families of the Miles community. The centre, established earlier this year, operates through a partnership with the Chow Foundation, Lae Biscuit Company, St Steven Catholic Parish, and St Steven Elementary School, who provide ongoing support and host BbP programs on their premises.

The ceremony was officially opened and blessed by Father Christubabu Chamallamudi, parish priest of St Steven Catholic Church. Distinguished guests included Mr John Chow, Managing Director of Lae Biscuit Company (LBC), along with LBC department heads; Mr Brenton Kanowski, Australian Consulate-General in Lae; Mr Bernard Pamba, Teacher-In-Charge of St Steven Elementary School; Ms Anne-Sophie Hermann, Founder & Vice Chair of Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP); and Ms Leanne Resson, Executive Officer of BbP.

During the event, the Australian Consulate-General in Lae, Mr Brenton Kanowski, announced support of over K50,000 to St Steven’s Elementary School through the Australian High Commission’s Direct Aid Program (DAP). The grant will fund small-scale infrastructure works to include sanitation and hygiene infrastructure and resources and training and teaching resources for a nutrition program to be implemented by Buk bilong Pikinini. Mr Kanowski highlighted that “strong local partnerships are at the heart of Australia’s support in Papua New Guinea. These investments in school infrastructure and resources help create safe, engaging spaces where children can learn and grow.”

A total of 90 students graduated, showcasing their learning through songs, recitations, and classroom presentations. Each graduate received a yummy goodie bag from Lae Biscuit Company. Ms Anne-Sophie Hermann noted that “this funding will allow us to expand library resources across St Steven’s and to pilot complementary programs including a school-wide nutrition and learning support initiative. Buk bilong Pikinini will work closely with school leadership, the Chow Foundation, and the Lae community to implement the works and resource distribution in early 2026, ensuring activities are locally led and sustainable.”

Mr John Chow emphasised the importance of early learning, saying, “The Chow Foundation is proud to partner with Buk bilong Pikinini to strengthen early literacy and ensure children have the skills, resources, and encouragement they need to thrive. Congratulations to our first-ever graduates, and thank you to everyone who plays a role in shaping their future.”

Buk bilong Pikinini extends sincere appreciation to the Australian Government, the Chow Foundation, Lae Biscuit Company, St Steven Catholic Parish, teachers, parents, and community partners for their continued support in improving early learning outcomes in Lae.