FROM READING TO BUILDING: BBP AND EXXONMOBIL PNG BRING STEM TO LIFE FOR YOUNG LEARNERS
Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) officially launched Literacy Week 2026 at its UPNG Library Learning Centre on Monday 07th September, 2026, and also marking the soft launch of a new book series of five Pre-STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) readers developed with financial support from ExxonMobil PNG.
The series introduces young children to STEM concepts through simple, relatable examples that connect learning to everyday life. A long-time supporter of BbP's Literacy Week initiatives, ExxonMobil PNG extended its partnership to support the development of these early learning resources and promote STEM education in Papua New Guinea.
The launch included a reading of the third book in the series by ExxonMobil PNG’s Planning and Contributions Manager, Ms Belinda Gurra, followed by a practical engineering activity with BbP students.
Ms Linda Cote, Exxon Mobil PNG’s Technical and Engineering Manager was also present to witness the launch and along with her team of five engineers, John Kawagle, Civil Engineer, Joel Iamo, Electrical Engineer, Jimmy Tarabu, Mechanical Engineer, Asenath Babona, Mechanical Engineer and Jadelle Purtang, Mechanical Engineer, assisted the students with their activities.
Making STEM Simple and Relevant
The Pre-STEM readers introduce foundational concepts including counting, measurement, patterns, materials, structures, design, testing, problem-solving and cause-and-effect. Through engaging examples, children learn how these concepts relate to the world around them and form the basis of future STEM learning.
Anne-Sophie Hermann, BbP Founder & Vice Chair said, "BbP believes that early learning makes a significant difference to a child's educational journey. By introducing STEM concepts early, children can begin to develop curiosity, problem-solving skills and an understanding of how what they learn connects to real life. These foundations can then be reinforced throughout elementary, primary and secondary education, while opening young minds to future possibilities and STEM-related career pathways. We are grateful for the support of EMPNG funding to develop meaningful resources, which will inspire our students to select STEM-based education pathways."
From Reading to Building
Following the reading session, students participated in a Bridge Building Activity supported by BbP teachers and ExxonMobil engineers. Working in teams and using natural materials, students designed, built and tested their own bridges, applying concepts from the story they had just read. The activity encouraged students to explore material properties, measurement, design and problem-solving while learning how engineers test and improve structures. By moving from reading to hands-on application, students experienced STEM learning in a practical and engaging way.
ExxonMobil PNG Chairman and Managing Director, Dinesh Sivasamboo said of the program, "It is ExxonMobil PNG’s privilege to support the students’ Bridge Building Project. Giving young students the chance to work alongside our engineers, using creativity and teamwork to design, build, and test their own bridges while learning valuable STEM skills is invaluable exposure for the young learners.”
Making the Readers Accessible
The Pre-STEM readers will be available for purchase through Buk bilong Pikinini in 2027 and will also be accessible to BbP students through the BbP Flipbook App.
BbP acknowledges ExxonMobil PNG's longstanding support of Literacy Week and its contribution to the development of the Pre-STEM series. The partnership reflects BbP's commitment to strengthening literacy and expanding learning opportunities for children across Papua New Guinea.
The launch formed part of BbP's Literacy Week 2026, running from 07th-11th September 2026, which brings together children, teachers, partners and supporters through activities that encourage reading, learning and exploration.
