More than one million Kina invested in Early Childhood by the CPL Foundation
Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) proudly celebrated the graduation of 46 students from its Tatana Library Learning Centre (LLC) Monday the 2nd of December, during a joyful and well-attended ceremony at the Tatana Village United Church Hall.
Reverend Momoru Hedu of the Tatana Hosanna United Church opened the graduation ceremony with a blessing, warmly acknowledging the importance of early childhood education for the Tatana community and encouraging families to continue supporting their children’s learning journey.
Tatana students giving their speeches.
The ceremony was attended not only by donor partners but also by many proud parents and families, who gathered to witness their children graduate and celebrate their achievements.
Representatives from BbP’s Tatana LLC sponsor, the CPL Foundation, were present to mark the special occasion. Ms Deborah Alois, Foundation Manager, and Ms Yvonne Igo and team joined the celebrations and brought along refreshments and a delicious celebratory cake for the graduates and their families. Their presence further highlighted CPL Foundation’s ongoing commitment to community education initiatives in Papua New Guinea communities.
In her remarks, Ms Alois reflected on the invaluable partnership between the CPL Foundation and BbP, noting that the Tatana LLC has received over K1 million in support since its inception in 2014, including close to K150,000 in 2025 alone. She emphasised that the Foundation’s long-term investment in early literacy programs is driven by a simple but powerful purpose: “Why we continue the support is simply, for the children.”
Her comments reinforced CPL Foundation’s belief that strong literacy skills at an early age can positively shape the future of children across PNG.
BbP Founder and Vice Chair, Ms Anne-Sophie Hermann expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the Foundation’s unwavering support and extended a special thanks to Sir Mahesh Patel, whose personal dedication has ensured the sustainability of the Tatana LLC from its beginning. The BbP Early Childhood program is holistic and includes literacy and numeracy as well as inclusive, digital and nutritional education providing the children with the best possible preparation for school.
Students with their special graduation cake from CPL Foundation.
BbP’s Executive Officer, Ms Leanne Resson, also attended and was proud to witness the students graduating. She, together with Ms Deborah Alois, Ms Anne-Sophie Hermann, and Reverend Momoru Hedu, were honoured to present the graduation certificates to the young learners.
Parent representative Ms Lala, who is also a Grade 8 teacher at Tatana Primary School, delivered a heartfelt speech thanking the CPL Foundation and Buk bilong Pikinini for supporting the Tatana village community for the past 11 years. She encouraged parents to continue bringing their children to school consistently and to support them throughout their educational journey so they may grow into confident learners and responsible citizens.
A memorable highlight of the ceremony was hearing the graduates proudly share what they hope to become when they grow up — from teachers and nurses to pilots and police officers. Their aspirations reflected the confidence and curiosity nurtured through BbP’s Early Childhood Development and Literacy Program.
The celebration ended with a light reception featuring cakes and refreshments generously provided by the CPL Foundation, supportive Tatana parents, and an additional cake from Sweetheart Bakery. Families, community members, and partners gathered to enjoy the occasion and celebrate the achievements of the young learners.
Buk bilong Pikinini congratulates all young 46 graduates from the Tatana LLC and extends sincere thanks to the dedicated teaching team whose efforts continue to inspire, educate and empower children in the community. BbP looks forward to welcoming the next cohort of eager young learners in 2026.
Excited students tossing their graduation hats.
Anne-Sophie Hermann presenting a certificate to a student
Devorah Alois presenting a student with his certificate.
Leanne Resson, presenting a student with his certificate
Reverend Momoru Hedu presenting a certificate.
