Big step for Western: Teachers upgrade qualification locally
Teachers In-service students participating in class.
Regina Apini (in yellow blouse) believes a degree and even a Masters is now possible.
For the first time ever, 37 dedicated elementary teachers in Western Province have begun upgrading their qualification to a Diploma in Primary Teaching (In-Service)—delivered locally at the SDP-funded Balimo College.
Thanks to an MOA between our partner KTF and the PNG-Australia Partnership for Improving Education (PIE), the flexible two-year program is helping teachers upgrade their qualifications while they continue to teach. The program combines self-directed learning with in-person sessions that will run during school holidays at the DHERST-accredited Balimo College.
“When we received our acceptance letters, we couldn’t believe our eyes,” said teacher Gabriel Akolomai who has 26 years of experience.
Another teacher, Regina Apini who began teaching after grade school said: “This makes me believe even a degree or master’s is now possible.”
The elementary teachers and lecturers after the completion of the first in-person component of their studies.