Buk bilong Pikinini marks National Disability Day thanks to donor Sir Brian Bell Foundation

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) proudly marked National Disability Day across all of its Library Learning Centres (LLCs) in the country with a meaningful and engaging activities on the theme: “We are all different, and we can all help each other.”

Students took part in activities that encouraged kindness, understanding and acceptance of others with special needs. Using BbP’s published books “OurSpecial Stories” and “I Am Noah”, they learned that everyone learns in different ways, that everyone is special and unique, and that we must respect each other regardless of our differences.

BbP has supported children with special needs and disability since 2008 through the organisation’s learning centres, published resources and team. Noah Agino, has worked for BbP since 2008 and - as a person living with hearing impairment – is making a substantial and impactful contribution to the organisation.

BbP currently offers an Inclusive Education Program, which enables children with special needs to enroll and learn within its LLCs. With the support of its Inclusive Education team and trained teachers, BbP develops individualized education plans tailored to each child’s unique needs, ensuring that every student is given the opportunity to learn and thrive.

BbP extends its sincere gratitude to the Sir Brian Bell Foundation (SBBF) for its ongoing support of the Inclusive Education Program. This partnership has played a vital role in strengthening inclusive learning opportunities for children across Papua New Guinea.

Bronwyn Wright, CEO of SBBF and Chairwoman of the BbP board said “The Sir Brian Bell Foundation is incredibly proud to support the Inclusive Education Program delivered by Buk bilong Pikinini. We believe that every child, regardless of their abilities, deserves access to quality education in an environment where they feel valued and supported. This program is a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaboration. We remain deeply committed to strengthening these opportunities across Papua New Guinea and are honored to partner with Buk Bilong Pikinini to create lasting impact.

In addition to supporting students, BbP’s Inclusive Education Program also offers training in Inclusive Education Awareness and Sign Language for teachers and corporate clients, helping to build more inclusive communities beyond the classroom.

Anne-Sophie Hermann, Founder and Vice Chairwoman of the BbP board remarked, “We are grateful to the Sir Brian Bell Foundation for their sponsorship of our Inclusive Education program and for welcoming our team to conduct training for Brian Bell team members. It is through education, inclusion and visibility that we are able to ensure that all members of society are valued and respected. Teaching children from a young age to use sign language and make friends with those who are differently abled, will foster a more inclusive society, which values the different skills we all have to offer.”