Children with special needs receive gifts

While many Papua New Guineans prepare to watch the opening match of the 2026 State of Origin series, children with special needs at the Callan Inclusive Education Resource Centre in Kaindi, Wewak, yesterday experienced a special moment of joy after receiving gifts from Westpac Bank Wewak Branch.

A total of 40 children benefited from the donation which included 40 wrapped stationery packs, children’s clothes, and two cartons of children’s reading books.

The smiles and excitement on the faces of the children reflected the impact of the support, with teachers and caregivers describing the visit as a meaningful and encouraging gesture for the students.

According to Westpac Wewak Branch, the donation was coordinated in partnership with the Coomera Branch on the Gold Coast, Australia, as part of the bank’s community support initiative aimed at helping local organisations and communities.

Principal of the Inclusive Education Resource Centre, Veronica Kave, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Westpac Bank Limited for remembering children living with special needs.

“God bless the hearts of those who gives,” Ms Kave said.

She said the donation would greatly support the children’s learning and personal development, especially through the reading materials and stationery packs provided.

Teachers at the centre also acknowledged that such support brings encouragement and happiness to the students, many of whom come from families facing financial challenges.

The donation day created a cheerful atmosphere at the center, with children excitedly receiving and opening their gifts while interacting with the visiting bank staff.

The Callan Inclusive Education Resource Centre in Wewak continues to play an important role in supporting children with special needs through inclusive education and specialized learning programs across East Sepik Province.