Sorong City, West Papua - With a sincere determination to improve education in Sorong City and its surroundings, friends from various literacy, environmental and children's communities joined the Sorong Literacy Forum to hold an inspiring Literacy Festival in Papua. This festival is held to commemorate World Education Day which falls every September.
The Literacy Festival in Papua held by the Sorong Literacy Forum shows the spirit of mutual cooperation and high commitment to advancing the world of education in this area. More than 20 communities, including Ecoducation Atap Langit, KOMPIMPA, BEDAFOUND, Misool Foundation, Papua Sharing, and 15 other NGOs, joined this effort.
Four important issues were raised during the event, namely:
1. Local Wisdom & Culture: This festival promotes and celebrates local wisdom and Papuan culture. Participants gained a deeper understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage through various activities and exhibitions.
2. Environment: Environmental awareness was highly emphasized during this festival. Children were invited to learn the values of conservation and sustainability.
3. Gender Equality: Through Educational Talks and entertainment stages, this festival promotes gender equality and inspires children to follow their dreams without gender restrictions.
4. Disabilities: This event also created an inclusive space for children with disabilities to share with other participants, through sign language training.
The participants who took part in this festival came from various groups, from elementary school, middle school, high school children, university students to the general public. Their presence strengthens our collective determination to advance education and literacy in Papua while respecting local wisdom, protecting the environment, promoting gender equality, and supporting children with disabilities.
The Sorong Literacy Festival is clear proof that when a community unites for a noble cause, positive change in the world of education can be realized. This is the first step in a long journey towards increasing access to education and literacy in Papua, an effort that will bring light to future generations.
