Balif village welcomes first YWAM early childhood teachers

A milestone in education was celebrated yesterday, as Youth With A Mission [YWAM] Wewak hosted the first-ever Early Childhood Teacher Training Graduation in Balif village, of Maprik, East Sepik.

Director Jenny Francis delivered the keynote speech, thanking the Maprik District Development Authority, local churches, and the wider community for their unwavering support.

She encouraged the graduates to embrace their new calling, saying their role as teachers will “shine as salt and light across the nation.”

Deputy Principal Kevin Kasman praised the backing of Maprik MP Libert Kapris, emphasizing that early childhood education is the bedrock of learning.

“It shapes children physically, mentally, and spiritually, opening doors to higher education,” he said with conviction.

Adding to the celebration, Community Development Manager Cynthia Wafolo reminded the graduates of their noble responsibility: “You are molders of children’s dreams and protectors of the next generation.”

A total of 33 trainees attended the program, coming from Maprik and surrounding districts, including Drekikir and Angoram.

Their joy was evident as they proudly received certificates, with parents, guests, and community leaders joining to mark what many described as a historic milestone for village-level education.