Literacy in the Pacific region is facing significant challenges, with many primary school children beginning their education without exposure to books or printed materials at home. Dr. Michelle Belisle, Director of the Educational Quality and Assessment Program at the Pacific Community, attributes this early gap as a critical factor in the region’s continued struggle to meet educational standards.
The unique challenges faced by the Pacific, such as its scattered islands, limited access to schools, numerous languages, and restricted access to electricity, internet, and learning resources, further exacerbate the situation. Despite increasing efforts to enhance education across the region, these barriers hinder progress.
Dr. Belisle emphasized the vital role of teachers in education and the importance of equipping them with the necessary tools to integrate digital resources into literacy teaching. She stressed the need for investment in teacher training and resource development, while ensuring the safeguarding of Pacific languages, traditions, and cultures. The theme for this year’s International Literacy Day, “Weaving Traditional Literacy with Digital Tools in the Blue Pacific,” reflects the need for innovation that respects heritage.
In recent efforts to tackle literacy challenges, the Pacific Community unveiled two new resources during International Literacy Day. These include a regional poetry booklet designed to improve literacy through poetry and a digital platform, the Pacific’s Education Research Bank, available on the Pacific Data Hub to provide access to regional education research.
These initiatives represent significant steps toward strengthening literacy skills in the region. As these efforts continue, there is hope that they will create a positive impact by fostering educational development while preserving the cultural heritage of the Pacific communities.