Buk bilong Pikinini Launches Second Playground Project at Vabukori
Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) today officially launched its second Playground Project at the Vabukori Library Learning Centre (LLC), marking another important step in creating safe, engaging and child-friendly learning environments for young children.
The playground initiative was developed in response to the National Department of Education’s (NDoE) requirement for Early Childhood Education (ECE) providers to establish designated play areas for children. BbP’s second playground project follows the successful development of its first playground at the 9-Mile Library Learning Centre.
Both playground projects were made possible through funding support from the Digicel Foundation, including a generous K50,000 community grant towards the Vabukori project. The projects were further supported by a number of corporate and community partners who contributed materials, construction support, equipment, labor and technical assistance.
Donor Partners, Corporate Supporters and Teams
Digicel Foundation – Major funder of the playground project
Sir Brian Bell Foundation – Sponsor of the Vabukori Library Learning Centre
Vabukori Women’s Development Association (VWDA) – Provided the space for the playground and learning activities
Dulux – Provided significant project support through paint for the playground obstacles, tyres and mural wall, and brought “Ollie” the dog mascot and jellybeans for the students at the launch
Hex Constructions – Construction of playground obstacles
Brian Bell – Provided beach toys for the sandpit
National Department of Education (NDoE) – Provided guidance to BbP to ensure the project aligns with standards and requirements for ECE providers
BbP Playground Project Team, led by Mr Jericho Gideon – Undertook installation, finishing works and development of the mural wall
Black Swan International – Supplied used tyres for playground borders and tyre art
BNBM – Provided building supplies and tools
Designed with colorful PNG animal themes, the playground provides children with an inviting space where learning and play can take place together. The different play obstacles and activities are intended to encourage children to explore, develop physical skills, interact with others and build confidence in a safe environment.
Adding to the excitement of the morning, the Dulux team brought their mascot, “Ollie” the dog, along with plenty of jellybeans to share with the children.
The playground was officially opened through a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Ms Leanne Resson, Executive Officer of Buk bilong Pikinini; Ms Valda Kilangis Kereu, CEO of Digicel Foundation. Following the ceremony, the excited children had the opportunity to explore the new playground and enjoy the various play obstacles and sandpit toys.
Remarks by Ms Leanne Resson, Executive Officer of Buk bilong Pikinini
“Play is one of the most effective ways children learn, helping them develop physically, socially, emotionally, and cognitively. A well-designed playground provides children with a safe and meaningful space to explore, build confidence, develop skills, and learn through play. Creating these opportunities requires the support of everyone, educators, families, communities, and partners.
We acknowledge and thank Digicel Foundation for funding support for this playground project, Vabukori Women’s Development for providing this beautiful space, Sir Brian Bell Foundation for sponsoring the library, and all our partners for their continued support in creating better learning opportunities for children. Together, we can help our children learn, grow, and reach their full potential.”
Remarks by Ms Valda Kilangis Kereu, CEO, Digicel Foundation
“Every child deserves a safe and engaging space to learn, play and grow. Through our Community Grants Program, Digicel PNG Foundation is proud to contribute K50,000 towards this playground at Vabukori. Play is a powerful tool for learning, helping children develop skills, coordination and confidence while encouraging creativity and social interaction. When combined with initiatives such as nutrition education, it helps lay the foundation for healthier, happier lives. We commend Buk bilong Pikinini for their commitment to supporting children’s development, learning and wellbeing.”
The successful completion of the Vabukori playground reflects what can be achieved when development partners, communities and organizations work together to create meaningful opportunities for children.
BbP acknowledges the continued support of its donor partners, corporate supporters and community partners, whose contributions enable the organization to strengthen its early childhood education programs and provide safe and supportive learning environments for children across Papua New Guinea.
Following the completion of its second playground project, BbP looks forward to continuing this initiative and working towards establishing playgrounds across its 16 Library Learning Centres, providing more children with opportunities to learn, play and grow.
