The impact of basic computing training has sparked a ripple effect of upskilling in a remote area of PNG.
A Story By MAF Technologies, Joy Suarkia
Computer training provided by MAF Technologies has strengthened the local church in PNG's Western Province, as pastors use their skills to share the gospel.
Pastor Dacky Wakili, the local ministry coordinator for the Evangelical Church of PNG, said the month-long training in 2021 had fired up the local church and inspired teachers and health workers to want to learn more.
“Apart from the youth and Church workers such as the pastors we also had participants join who were health workers and even elementary and primary teachers,” said Pastor Dacky, who is based in Balimo in PNG’s Western Province.
We’ve had people who have shown their interest who were doing nothing with their lives and when they joined the training and touched these computers, they were so excited, and they have learnt so much from the training.”
Pastor Dacky shared a story about a Balimo Elementary School teacher from a village in Wasua District. The teacher participated in the BCT training and was excited as it catered to his teaching needs. Subsequently, the training helped him improve his skills and effectively utilize Microsoft software on his laptop to develop reports and create teaching materials. The success of this teacher is a testament to the fact that with the right training and support, educators can also make a real difference in the lives of their students.
Through the BCT program, pastors and individuals can learn how to use computer software to simplify their work, increase efficiency, and improve productivity whether it is through presenting sermons, teaching, or creating reports.
Through the BCT program, pastors and individuals can learn how to use computer software to simplify their work, increase efficiency, and improve productivity whether it is through presenting sermons, teaching, or creating reports.
Caine Ruruk, of MAF Technologies, said the teaching was important for strengthening the impact of the local church in remote areas.
"For most participants and especially pastors, they are relieved that they can now type their own programs and sermons, they can also now minister to the younger generations via power point sermons and through social media. As trainers, MAF Technologies has identified the need to equip pastors and ministry workers for members of their local church in today's technical era," said Caine.
Pastor Dacky has seen the way technology can help the church to share its message.
“I used it and I’ve even noticed that when we do the presentation on PowerPoint people are excited to see and hear what is being shared. It gives them a new way of learning and understanding the word of God,” he said.
“When they hear, they only hear from the preachers but when they see it from the PowerPoint presentation and hear the word it goes together so well, and it helps them to understand.”