The Motu Koitabu villages in Port Moresby are in great need of educational programs to prepare children for school and education in general. Mary children are never enrolled at school and remain illiterate for life.

The Vabukori village LLC was opened in March 2022 and is housed within the Vabukori Women’s Development Association Centre, which is built on land provided by village leaders and will provide a much-needed boost to the children’s education. More than 60 - 5-year-old children have enrolled in the Early Childhood program and more will be expected to attend the After-School Literacy support program.

The LLC was officially opened by Steamships representative Mihyun Bray and Hon. Dadi Toka and more are yet to come as a result of a public-private partnership between Steamships Ltd., National Capital District Commission, Motu Koita Assembly and Buk bilong Pikinini. This is the second to be opened after Pari village LLC in 2020.

Steamships Ltd. is a Platinum foundational partner of Buk bilong Pikinini, and has assisted with the establishment of LLCs since 2009, including in Lae and Goroka. The current commitment with the MKA and the NCD represents a K2 million investment over the next five years.

Naomi Kedea, President of the Vabukori Women’s Development Association Centre, said: “Teach the children very young, while their minds are fresh and can absorb everything. So when they grow up, they become good citizens. Whether professionals, community leaders or whatever gift and talents instilled in them by God.”