In an effort to bridge a gap in digital access to resources for Papua New Guinean (PNG) learners in remote communities, Women’s Developmental Leadership Program alumna Luanne Isikel Borle is launching a comprehensive and first-of-its-kind eLibrary in New Ireland Province, PNG.
In a series of interviews with Nasfund FM100 PNG, Luanne shared how the ‘Ben Isikel E-Library' initiative, which she spearheaded with support from the WLI Leadership Fund, will benefit learners, teachers, and the wider community by increasing access to digital technology and resources.
Lemeris Primary School is the first educational institution in the province to benefit from the initiative, including through access to laptop computers, servers, and training (for more than 10 teachers) to improve digital literacy, navigate the new learning platform, and boost leadership skills.
While on Award in Australia, Luanne completed her Masters of Information Technology at the University of Canberra.
Passionate about using IT as a tool for social change, she explained, “The children of Lemeris village were ecstatic to use the computers, especially the grade eight students during their remedial classes for the upcoming exams.
“The e-library has opened up a new learning paradigm for them [and] the teachers who attended the training also valued the learning experience.”
According to Luanne, renovation works are currently underway to transform an old classroom to accommodate the new e-library facilities.
“The launching of this e-library is scheduled for the first week of October, with a date to be confirmed,” she explains.
The eLibrary initiative also aims to support the education department of New Ireland Province by offering students a gateway to a vast repository of educational materials.
At the same time, educators are empowered to elevate their teaching methods by seamlessly integrating digital resources into their curricula.
Luanne hopes that the initiative may serve as a model for future e-learning initiatives – particularly in remote areas.
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Alumni of the Women’s Developmental Leadership Program like Luanne can apply to access funding to deliver real-world leadership initiatives through the WLI Leadership Fund.
