Pikinini’s Pari Library Learning Centre During World Earth Day Celebration

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) marked World Earth Day on 22 April at its Pari Library Learning Centre (LLC), alongside the Sir Brian Bell Foundation (SBBF) and Mr Henao Kevau, Chairman of the Pari United Church. The event marked the official announcement of SBBF as the new donor supporting the Pari LLC for 2026.

Students and teachers took part in a range of fun and practical activities with the SBBF support squad, learning about the importance of caring for the environment, proper waste disposal, and the responsible use of resources in their daily lives. As part of the program, students also read about the role of a Botanist and participated in colouring activities with the support of the SBBF team and BbP teachers, helping them connect environmental learning with real-world careers and creative expression.

The Pari Library Learning Centre currently has 60 students enrolled, all of whom benefit from BbP’s literacy and learning programs in a safe and supportive environment.

SBBF has been a platinum sponsor of Buk bilong Pikinini since 2019 and continues to be a key partner in supporting early childhood education in Papua New Guinea. With the addition of Pari LLC, SBBF now supports seven (7) of BbP’s Library Learning Centres, BbP’s Inclusive Education Program, and the publishing of the When I Grow Up readers. The Foundation also contributes in-kind support, with total annual support valued at more than K600,000.00.

Bronwyn Wright, CEO of the Sir Brian Bell Foundation and Chairwoman of the BbP Board, remarked, “The Sir Brian Bell Foundation is incredibly proud to continue our partnership and sponsorship of Buk bilong Pikinini, with the addition of Pari LLC. This sponsorship reflects our shared commitment to and belief in the impact of Buk bilong Pikinini’s work and the importance of early childhood learning opportunities in Papua New Guinea. We look forward to continuing to build on the strong foundation we’ve created together.”

Mr Henao Kevau, Chairman of the Pari United Church, also expressed his appreciation, stating that the community was deeply grateful to both SBBF and Buk bilong Pikinini for bringing the program directly into the village. He acknowledged the positive impact of the partnership in creating meaningful learning opportunities for children and strengthening education access within the Pari community.

Leanne Resson, Executive Officer of Buk bilong Pikinini, said, “Having a holistic approach to learning, especially in early childhood is key to the overall success of a child’s education journey. With the support from SBBF as the new donor partner, BbP will be able to continue serving the children of Pari village and community as a whole. SBBF continues to demonstrate its commitment in all areas of the program, and for this we are grateful”.

Buk bilong Pikinini remains committed to supporting children across Papua New Guinea through its library learning centres and programs, helping to build strong foundations for lifelong learning.