Scouts in Milne Bay Province

MBP Scout Chair Roy Daniel does a rope tying demonstration (NBC News: Priscilla Waikaidi)

The Scouting Association of Papua New Guinea was in Milne Bay recently, rolling out the tail end of the school-based Scouting Policy approved by the National Government.

It's to make Scouting a part of the Education system, a policy approved in 2015.

Chief Scout of Papua New Guinea, Noel Pinda, led the team to Alotau, engaging with at least 50 teachers from primary schools within the Alotau cluster.

It's an extracurricular activity to complement Citizenship Christian Value Education, which has been rolled out over the last four years. Next year, it will be the final year before a summary report is submitted to the government on the rollout and its impact so far.

The Scouting movement was active back in the earlier years after Independence, and with the evident decline in societal discipline and respect, this was also about the right influence for healthy mindset shifts amongst children and youth.

It's about life skills and the value aspects.

Chief Scout Noel Pinda demonstrating how a rope is tied with Milne Bay teachers and volunteers (NBC News: Priscilla Waikaidi)

They've been to Central, Eastern Highlands, Lae, Kokopo, and have extended programs to Milne Bay for those showing active interest in being involved.

Incidentally the Scouting Association PNG will be celebrating its 100th year since establishment in 1926.