The Pacific Community has emphasized the importance of enhancing literacy in the region by integrating traditional knowledge with modern digital tools, highlighted during International Literacy Day. Doreen Tuala, Curriculum and Assessment Team Leader of SPC’s Educational Quality and Assessment Program, revealed ongoing challenges in meeting literacy standards in key education stages across the Pacific. She underlined that literacy extends beyond English, advocating for the development of reading and writing skills in local vernaculars. Despite persistent issues, technologies like digital recording are aiding in preserving cultural narratives and facilitating broader access to vernacular stories.
Recognizing the significant gap in literacy and numeracy benchmarks among students in Year 4 and Year 6, the SPC encourages immediate action to ameliorate these educational challenges. The theme for this year’s International Literacy Day revolves around harmonizing technology with traditional literacy practices, aiming at reinforcing learning while safeguarding the unique cultural heritage of the Pacific.
Recent endeavors by the Pacific Community in enhancing literacy also include the unveiling of resources such as a regional poetry booklet titled “Voices of the Pacific Youth: A Literacy Learning Tool” and the Pacific Education Research Bank, a platform to access regional educational research. These efforts highlight the commitment to providing educators and parents with versatile tools to foster literacy skills at various educational levels. The initiative aligns with a broader mission to promote peace and multilingualism across the Pacific.
Overall, these literacy efforts signify a positive step towards enriching the educational landscape in the Pacific, aiming to create a well-rounded foundation for students through innovative and culturally respectful methods.