Minister Johnson said literacy is more than simply learning how to read and write, describing it as a foundation for children’s confidence, knowledge and future opportunities.

“When we teach a child to read, we are not simply teaching a technical skill. We are building confidence, knowledge and opportunities for the future,” he said.

He stressed that every child in Vanuatu should have the opportunity to develop literacy and numeracy skills, adding that improving learning outcomes cannot be left to teachers alone.

“Literacy is not only the responsibility of teachers. It is the responsibility of all of us — government, schools, teachers, parents, communities and our partners,” Minister Johnson said.

He encouraged parents to make reading part of everyday family life by reading with their children, asking questions, looking at books together and encouraging them to develop an interest in reading.

The message was reinforced by Pango Centre School Grade 3 teacher Judith Tasso, who said parents can make an important contribution without needing expensive resources or being trained teachers.

“Reading with children is very important because it helps them develop their language, vocabulary and understanding,” Tasso said.

“When parents read with their children, listen to them and ask questions about what they are reading, they are helping children become more confident and interested in learning.”

At Pango Centre School, the MoET showed how its Teaching and Learning Reform is being translated into practical classroom strategies.

Teachers demonstrated high-impact approaches, including morning routines and read-aloud activities, which are designed to help children settle and focus while developing language, vocabulary, reading and comprehension.

Pango Centre School Principal Joe Kalotap said the reform is giving teachers clearer direction and practical tools to strengthen their teaching.

“The Teaching and Learning Reform gives our teachers practical strategies that they can use in their classrooms and opportunities to reflect on and improve their teaching,” Kalotap said.

The reform covers education from Kindergarten through Year 10, with a particular emphasis on improving literacy and numeracy outcomes. It places teachers and school leaders at the centre of the process, supported through professional learning, coaching and collaboration.

A new technology initiative was also highlighted during the celebration, with Minister Johnson presenting Pango Centre School with a Swivl recording device.

The device can follow a teacher around the classroom while a lesson is being delivered, allowing teachers to record their teaching and later review their classroom practice.

The Ministry says the recordings can help teachers identify areas for improvement, reflect on their teaching and share effective approaches with colleagues.

The technology could also support e-learning and learning continuity when schools are affected by disasters or other emergencies.

Following its use at Pango Centre School, the device will be made available to other schools so more teachers can benefit from the technology and share examples of effective teaching.

The Ministry has reaffirmed its ambition for everyone in Vanuatu to have the opportunity to learn to read and write, with efforts continuing through partnerships involving teachers, school leaders, parents, communities and education partners.

The Ministry acknowledged the support of Australia, New Zealand and the Global Partnership for Education in supporting the Teaching and Learning Reform.

As Vanuatu marked International Literacy Day, the Ministry’s message was summed up by its campaign slogan: “Yumi ridim, yumi lanem, yumi gro” — Let us read, let us learn, let us grow.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST