A total of 53 participants from Aoke/Langalanga in Malaita Province have completed a one week phonics training which enables these illiterate people to be able to read and write.
At the end of the training they received their certificate on Friday.
This Phonics training was conducted at Su’u community Central Aoke, Langalanga Lagoon.
The training targeted the grade six, forms 3 and forms 5 drop out students living in the community.
The aim is to reduce illiteracy within the community.
The training was organized by Auki/Langalanga ECE & Lifeskills Association and was facilitated by Francis Walesara and Chairman of the association Benedict Barasi.
On Friday, a brief presentation ceremony was held and was attended by Solomon Islands Early Childhood Education (ECE) President Grace Piko from Honiara, executive members of the association, chiefs, pastors, principal of Talakali community high school Ray Sifoni and the guardians.
Speaking during the ceremony Ms Piko said, the participants have the privilege to learn a lot during this one-week training.
She said, its important that participants are able to treasure what they have learnt throughout the week.
Not only that, but to share with others their knowledge and skills, she added.
She also acknowledged those who have organized and facilitated the training.
A resource person for Auki Langalanga ECE&Lifeskills Association Chris Ania has appealed to academics from Langalanga Lagoon to go back and train the illiterate group of people at the community.
“Your God given talent will be lost if you don’t make use of it or share it to help others.”
Mr Ania highlighted that the rate of illiterate students at the community is on the rise.
“And I appeal to those degree holders and Masters to come back and teach the illiterate drop outs and equip them with knowledge and skills.”
Participants following the completion of the training have commended the Solomon Island Early Childhood Education President Ms Piko and facilitator of the training Walesara for facilitating the training.
A rep Maureen Damutalau said, the knowledge, skills and advices gained following the one week training really helps them to read and write properly.
“The opportunity given to us is a chance to help others read and write especially the little ones.
“My only wish is for that training to continue in the village in the future.”
The participants also thanked the Auki Langalanga Association for organizing the training.
“Its the first of its kind for such training to be organized and for many of us to participate in such training.”
Basilisa Koti Lafe, the founder of the association said, its been a struggle to set up the association in April this year.
She said, the aim of the association is to assist the illiterate group in the area.
And she appeals for more help from interested organisations to support the illiterate group in the area.
By William Ekotani
In Auki
