Buk bilong Pikinini and Svitzer PNG Partnership celebrated with a fun tug boat excursion for students.

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) is proud to announce a new partnership with Svitzer PNG, marked by a generous contribution of K20,000.00 to support BbP’s School Library Re-establishment Program. This funding will go towards the provision of School Library Kits and much-needed library books, helping to create enriching learning environments for children across community Papua New Guinea.

The partnership was officially announced through an exciting and educational student excursion involving BbP students from its Koki Library Learning Centre (LLC). The students were given a unique opportunity to visit the “Svitzer Venture” tugboat, where they experienced firsthand the world of seafaring.

During the visit, students engaged with Captains Denys and Oleksandr, and their amazing crew including Chief Engineer Alexander and Officer Emmanuel, learning about onboard safety and the important role tugboats play in supporting larger vessels and supporting the oil and gas industry, assisting in port operations, and even responding to emergencies such as firefighting at sea and what it takes to be a seafarer. The students explored key areas of the vessel, including the Bridge, Engine Room, Deck, Crew Accommodation, and Galley, gaining valuable insights into maritime careers and operations. They were then treated to a lovely lunch prepared by the chef on board, Catherine.

Present to commemorate this special occasion were Svitzer General Manager, Mr Dylan Sheehan, along with Mr John Whitfield, Port Manager Svitzer PNG, Ms Emma Yabsley, Lead People and Culture Partner, and Mr Simon Riddle, Port Manager Melbourne. Representing Buk bilong Pikinini was Ms Leanne Resson, Executive Officer, who expressed appreciation for the partnership and its impact, as well as BbP’s Head Office team and teachers who assisted in guiding the student through the excursion, who also expressed appreciation for this new partnership and its impact.

General Manager for Svitzer, Mr Dylan Sheehan, said, “Svitzer PNG is proud to support and invest in the communities we operate in and specifically with Buk Bilong Pikinini in Port Moresby. We hope with our partnership sees young children in Port Moresby are not only given the opportunity to access much needed learning materials and resources, but are also inspired to one day work in the maritime industry in PNG and internationally”.

Executive Officer for Buk bilong Pikinini, Ms Leanne Resson, remarked, “Schools across PNG are in dire need of quality library books. Students need books to enhance their learning, while books are useful teaching resources for teachers. Svitzer PNG’s contribution reflects its dedication to community engagement and education through the replenishment of school library books. This excursion also highlights the importance of experiential learning opportunities that inspire young minds”.

Buk bilong Pikinini looks forward to continuing this partnership and expanding opportunities for students through literacy and learning initiatives.