By JOEL K ANDREW
THE only thing that differentiates Papua New Guinea from the rest of the world is our cultural diversity, says National Cultural Commission Executive Director Steven Enomb Kilanda. He made the statement during a symposium hosted by Institute of Papua New Guinea Studies (IPNGS).
The highlight of the event was the launch of a publication, Celebrating Cultural Diversity: Student Essays, that grew out of an essay competition held last year.
In 2022, the institute and commission sent invitations to schools throughout National Capital District to have their Grade 11 and 12 students write an essay defining the cultural diversity of Papua New Guinea, its significance, advantages, disadvantages and the changes being experienced during the digital age.
Despite a short time-span for submissions, eight essays were received from students at Port Moresby International School, and another eight from Paradise College.
All 12 essays were put together in the publication launched on Tuesday, 13th June.
During the launching, Kilanda congratulated the teachers from those schools who encouraged their students to write, and the authors themselves.
“Congratulations to all of you for an amazing accomplishment,” he said. The first prize winner, Fiona Timbi was present during the symposium.
Kilanda stressed the importance of young people knowing their culture, customs and traditions as they would be the next generation of leaders.
The symposium had three different sessions on the ratification, promotion and the embracing of PNG’s cultural diversity, and how to preserve and conserve them.
