Online Learning to Advance Education and Help Schools Overcome Earthquake Challenges

February 5, 2025 12:13 am | Posted in Opinions | Share now TwitterFacebook

Vanuatu schools are stepping into the digital age with a major online initiative by the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET). In partnership with Lenakel Presbyterian College in Tanna, MoET conducted a training workshop to equip principals, IT officers, and teachers across Efate with the skills and knowledge needed to implement effective online learning practices. The training, funded by the Government of Australia, took place from Tuesday 21 January to Friday 24 January 2025, bringing together 68 participants from affected secondary schools.

Lenakel Presbyterian College has pioneered successful online learning, setting a benchmark for innovative education solutions in Vanuatu. During the training, the college principal, Mr. Gihiala, shared his expertise, guiding participants in using the college’s online learning platform. This knowledge exchange provided schools in Port Vila with practical insights into establishing and managing learning programs that blend traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning experiences.

This initiative is part of MoET’s recovery plan in response to the earthquake of 17 December 2024, which damaged Efate’s educational infrastructure. To ensure continuity of education, some secondary schools will supplement traditional teaching methods with online learning. This blended approach aims to mitigate challenges caused by the earthquake while ensuring affected students continue receiving a quality education.

As part of this effort, MoET and Lenakel Presbyterian College formalised an agreement to ensure the effective implementation of online learning. Under the agreement, the Ministry will support integrating data from affected schools and user profiles into Moodle, MoET’s learning management system, offer professional development for teachers and administrators, and ensure data privacy compliance. Lenakel Presbyterian College will grant access to its online learning platform and provide technical support to maintain seamless operations. The college will collaborate with MoET in managing user privileges for students, parents, teachers, and administrators, regularly monitor platform usage, and document lessons learned to enhance future initiatives.

Mr. Charlie Tariliu Gihiala expressed his gratitude for the partnership, stating, ‘We are deeply thankful to the Ministry of Education and Training for their trust and collaboration. This partnership is all about the children – ensuring their education continues seamlessly, even in challenging times. Lenakel Presbyterian College is delighted to share its knowledge and experience with affected schools on Efate, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of this initiative.’

The Director of Education Services, Mrs. Nanise Lapi, also shared her appreciation. She said, ‘We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lenakel Presbyterian College for their dedication and willingness to share their knowledge and experience. Your contributions have been invaluable in helping affected schools prepare for the upcoming academic year. We also want to thank all the schools that attended the training and demonstrated their commitment to ensuring education continuity.

‘We are deeply thankful to the Ministry of Education and Training for their trust and collaboration. This partnership is all about the children – ensuring their education continues seamlessly, even in challenging times. Lenakel Presbyterian College is delighted to share its knowledge and experience with affected schools on Efate, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of this initiative.’

Together, we are building a resilient education system for our children.’

MoET remains committed to supporting schools and ensuring students receive uninterrupted education, regardless of external challenges. This training marks a significant step in preparing schools to adapt to modern teaching methods and maintain resilience during unexpected disruptions.

In collaboration with communities, schools, and development partners, MoET is committed to realising Vanuatu’s National Sustainable Development Plan (2016-2030) in line with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This commitment guarantees equal access to quality and equitable education through well-managed schools, reflecting MoET’s dedication to empowering educators and strengthening Vanuatu’s education system.