+675 322 5300

Call to speak to our team

info@thecefi.org

Contact our team via email

Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 4:30

We maintain normal hours

Follow Us

Linkedin Facebook-f Whatsapp Instagram Youtube

Author: Leslie Omaro

Categories
News Article

CEFI bids farewell to one of it’s Managers

The Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) hosted a heartfelt farewell lunch on Thursday, 29th May 2025,  for Mr. Busa Jeremiah Wenogo, Manager for Special Projects.

In his farewell speech Mr. Wenogo thanked his colleges for their support in performing  their duties and building strong working relationship him during his time with CEFI. He paid special tribute to two of his former colleagues, in former CEFI Executive Director Mr. Saliya Ranasingh and former CEFI Consultant Mr. Augustine Birie, who were instrumental in bringing him into CEFI, and acknowledged many others who supported his journey, including colleagues from the Market for Village Farmers project and financial inclusion pioneers.

Having worked in the financial inclusion space since 2013, Busa recounted his contributions to­ key initiatives such as the Informal Economic Policy, the Financial Inclusion Capability and Competency Study, and the drafting of Papua New Guinea’s first National Financial Inclusion Strategy. He reflected on international exposure visits, including one to Fiji with then Bank of PNG Governor Mr. Loi Bakani, which inspired the blueprint for microfinance expositions.

He described his time at CEFI as deeply meaningful, having been mentored by what he called two “giants”, Mr. Birie and Mr. Ranasinghe. He praised CEFI’s Acting Executive Director Mr. Peter Samuel for his administrative leadership and said his colleagues had become “brothers and sisters, not just co-workers.”

Looking ahead, he said his new job with another organization was not an end but “a continuation” of his journey with CEFI, and he hoped to foster future collaboration. “I am lost for words,” he said. “I pray that God will bless each and every one of you in your endeavors.”

In response, Mr. Samuel expressed his sincere appreciation for Mr. Wenogo’s dedication to CEFI and the country as a whole in the financial inclusion journey, impacting people’s lives, was immeasurable.

He highlighted Mr. Wenogo’s leadership in building structure within his unit, playing an important role in overseeing training of farmers in the MVF project as well as individuals and his personal growth, including attaining a Master’s degree.

Mr Samuel encouraged him to continue advocate for CEFI. He also praised Mr. Wenogo’s humility, faith, and integrity.

Ms. Winnie Kari, a casual staff member who served for four months was farewelled as well and in closing, Mr Samuel also thanked Ms. Winnie Kari for her positivity and fresh perspective, wishing both departing colleagues success and encouraging them to remain connected with the CEFI family.

Caption: Images showing CEFI’s Acting Executive Director Mr. Peter Samuel and staff farewelling Mr. Busa Jeremiah Wenogo as well as Ms. Winnie Kari.

Categories
News Article

Trainee graduates urged to champion Financial Literacy

A mini graduation held at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) on Friday, 6th June 2025, marked the conclusion of a five-day Financial Literacy Training of Trainers (ToT) and Retail Training, sponsored by the Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR) and facilitated by the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI). The programme, conducted from 2nd to 6th June, aimed to equip participants with critical financial knowledge and practical training skills to promote financial inclusion across the country.

Number of graduates from the Financial Literacy Training of Trainers was a total of 27 participants 11 females and 16 males all officers from the UPNG student services division and Department of Community Development and Religion. As for the retail training conducted by the Department of Community Development & Religion which comprised of a team of four trainers all officers from the Department who trained over 147 students from the University itself. The group of students comprised of student leaders from association groups, the SRC and other groups who reside on campus. Topics covered in both the ToT and Retail Training include making savings plan, creating a simple budget, cash flow tracking sheets and basic money management skills. As for the ToT participants they also learnt basic training techniques such as facilitating group learning, assessing group learning and providing supportive resource materials to complement their learning sessions.

Delivering the opening remarks at the graduation ceremony, Mr Robinson Lanza, Deputy Director for Research and Community at UPNG, acknowledged the joint effort between the university, DFCDR, and CEFI in delivering the training. He praised the contribution of financial institutions including MiBank, Mama Bank, BSP and the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), and commended the trainees for their dedication.

“Financial literacy is foundational for both personal development and national progress,” Mr Lanza stated. “By empowering individuals, particularly youth, with financial knowledge, we are building a more responsible and sustainable future.”

Ms Jill Pijui, Manager for Financial Inclusion and Capacity Development at CEFI, reiterated the importance of such partnerships in advancing financial inclusion. She noted that CEFI’s mission is guided by policies from the Department of Treasury and the Department of National Planning and Monitoring, and aims to transition over two million unbanked citizens into the formal financial sector.

“Your impact starts at home,” Ms Pijui told the graduates. “Apply what you’ve learnt in your lives before you train others. The certificate only becomes meaningful when the knowledge is put into action.” She highlighted the importance of both theoretical learning such as budgeting and saving and the practical ability to train and support others in financial matters.

Mr Guninandhi Das, CEO of Women’s Microbank emphasized the role of mindset in fostering sound financial habits.

“Financial literacy starts with the mindset of savings,” Mr Das said. “It is not just about putting money away it’s about making everyday decisions that prioritize value over waste.” He encouraged graduates to form habits that promote savings and to eventually embed it as part of their culture. Mr Das further advised trainees to maintain active bank accounts and mobile numbers, underscoring their importance in accessing future financial services and building credibility.

Delivering the official closing remarks on behalf of Secretary Jerry Ubase, Mr George Kulisi, Director of Programmes at DFCDR, acknowledged the cultural norm in Papua New Guinea of giving over saving and called for a shift in mindset that supports financial responsibility.

He commended the training’s alignment with the Medium-Term Development Strategy (MTDS), specifically Priority Area 11, which promotes community empowerment, financial inclusion, and youth leadership. “The Department remains committed to building meaningful partnerships with institutions like UPNG,” Mr Kulisi stated. “We encourage graduates to apply this knowledge and lead the way in building a more financially responsible Papua New Guinea.”

Participants also took the stage to share their reflections. Mr Vencislos Edmund, speaking on behalf of the male trainees, thanked all stakeholders and expressed his determination to pass on what he had learnt.

Ms Otolose Sheekiot, representing the female trainees, emphasized the relevance of financial literacy amid current economic challenges. “This training has equipped us with life-changing skills,” she said. “As a school board member, I intend to bring this knowledge into schools and communities.”

Mr. Kuagilo Gilson, speaking on behalf of the trainees, expressed gratitude to DFCDR, CEFI, and UPNG. He highlighted the importance of financial literacy, especially tracking income, expenses, and cash flow. He encouraged investment over saving, sharing insights on financial planning and practical application of knowledge gained during the training.

 

Ends.

 

For further information on the work of CEFI please contact CEFI Communications Team: +675 3225300, email: lomaro@thecefi.org  or visit www.thecefi.org

Image Captions:

Image 1: A photo collage showcasing classroom training sessions, activities from the Financial Literacy Training of Trainers (FL ToT) and Retail Training, and account opening with MiBank, Women’s Micro Bank, and BSP.

Image 2: Ms Jill Pijui, Manager for Financial Inclusion and Capacity Development at CEFI, delivering a speech at the graduation ceremony.

Image 3: Mr Guninandhi Das, CEO of Women’s Micro Bank, addressing attendees at the graduation.

Image 4: Mr Vencislos Edmund speaking on behalf of the male trainees.

Image 5: Ms Otolose Sheekiot speaking on behalf of the female trainees.

Image 6: Financial Literacy ToT and Retail Trainees gathered at the graduation ceremony.

Image 7: Mr Kuagilo Gilson delivering remarks on behalf of the Retail Trainees.

Image 8: Mr Paul Tamate, Training Officer at CEFI, speaking at the graduation.

Image 9: Mr Guninandhi Das, CEO of Women’s Micro Bank, presenting a Financial Literacy ToT Certificate to Nadia Rupen.

Image 10: Mr Guninandhi Das presenting a Financial Literacy ToT Certificate to Vallen Naemon.

Image 11: Mr Guninandhi Das presenting a Financial Literacy ToT Certificate to Cecila Wrondimi.

Image 12: Mr George Kulisi, Director of Programmes at DFCDR, presenting a Financial Literacy ToT Certificate to Uraineh Warus.

Image 13: Mr George Kulisi presenting a Financial Literacy ToT Certificate to Jacinta Wanto.

Image 14: Mr George Kulisi presenting a Financial Literacy ToT Certificate to Robinson Lanza.

Image 15: Ms Jill Pijui presenting a Financial Literacy ToT Certificate to Jayson Kil.

Image 16: Ms Jill Pijui presenting a Financial Literacy ToT Certificate to Nigel Bana.

Image 17: Ms Jill Pijui presenting a Financial Literacy ToT Certificate to Josephine Serah Koimbu.

Image 18: Mr George Kulisi presenting a Financial Literacy Retail Certificate to Ambuaou Wena.

Image 19: Mr George Kulisi presenting a Financial Literacy Retail Certificate to Andrew Komena.

Image 20: Mr Guninandhi Das presenting a Financial Literacy Retail Certificate to Deborah Lailan.

Image 21: Mr Guninandhi Das presenting a Financial Literacy Retail Certificate to Dicky Moten.

Image 22: Ms Jill Pijui presenting a Financial Literacy Retail Certificate to Kaupa Poiye.

Image 23: Ms Jill Pijui presenting a Financial Literacy Retail Certificate to Naomi Tikana.

Image 24: Mr George Kulisi delivering the closing remarks at the graduation ceremony.

Image 25: Guest speakers and trainees posing for a group photograph.

Image 26: (From left to right) Mr Guninandhi Das, CEO of Women’s Micro Bank; Ms Jill Pijui, Manager for Financial Inclusion and Capacity Development at CEFI; and Mr George Kulisi, Director of Programmes at DFCDR, cutting the graduation cake.

 

 

 

 

Categories
Media Releases

MEDIA RELEASE: Kopkop College students gain first-hand Financial Literacy Experience through CEFI Visit

The Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) welcomed the Grade 10 students from Kopkop College, Port Moresby, as part of the school’s Educational Excursion Visit to the CEFI office, held over two days from 3 to 4 June 2025.

The visit aimed to enhance the students’ understanding of financial literacy, promote the value of savings and budgeting, and introduce key economic concepts such as monetary and fiscal policy. The program also included a practical component, opening bank accounts with Bank South Pacific (BSP) and MiBank, as part of the financial inclusion for young minds.

A total of 43 students, accompanied by their teachers, attended the two-day programme, 21 students participated on Tuesday 3rd June, with the second batch consisting of 22 students completing their visit on Wednesday 4th June.

In his opening remarks on day one, Mr Danny Koka, Manager for NFIS Coordination and Stakeholder Engagement at CEFI, encouraged students to develop sound financial habits at an early age.

“Saving early will prepare you in your future working life to overcome for challenges such as inflation, school fees, housing, and even starting your own business,” Mr Koka stated. He also thanked BSP and MiBank for being present onsite to assist students in opening their first bank accounts.

Grade 10 Teacher Mr Harold Wuris expressed gratitude to CEFI for facilitating the visit and emphasized the value of real world experience in helping students understand how financial institutions operate.

“This hands-on experience brings classroom learning to life and helps students connect theory with practical application,” Mr Wuris said.

Closing the two day program, Ms Jill Pijui, Manager for Financial and Capacity Building at CEFI, delivered the closing remarks and extended her appreciation to Kopkop College and the participating financial institutions.

Ms Pijui highlighted the integration of financial literacy into the national education curriculum, informing students that the subject would soon become compulsory alongside other core subjects.

She explained that eight key topics would be covered under the programme, including savings, budgeting, banking, superannuation, insurance, investment, credit, and debt management. Ms Pijui further stated that a pilot implementation is planned for 89 schools, with teacher training scheduled to begin by mid-2026.

“CEFI is committed to educating and empowering young people, especially considering that previous generations did not have access to financial literacy education,” Ms Pijui explained. She urged the students to become responsible money managers and take ownership of their financial futures.

Kopkop College Principal Mr Federick Raka also expressed his appreciation to CEFI for hosting the students and encouraged further collaboration.

“Many adults, including educators, were not taught financial literacy during their schooling. This is a gap that must be addressed. Today’s visit serves as a bridge between theory and real world money management skills,” Mr Raka said.

During the sessions, students engaged in presentations, interactive discussions, and activities focused on budgeting, saving, and the broader concepts of financial inclusion and national economic policy. CEFI staff also held Q&A sessions to reinforce student learning.

Several students shared their key takeaways from the educational sessions:

Eussetus Turharus said he had gained a deeper understanding of how financial literacy equips individuals to budget, save, and invest, while financial inclusion enables people throughout Papua New Guinea to access affordable banking services.

Hannah Sirimai expressed that before the visit, she had heard of financial literacy but did not fully grasp its importance. She highlighted CEFI’s role in reaching vulnerable populations, such as women, persons with disabilities, and rural communities, through financial education.

Sean Leva commented on the value of opening a bank account while still in school, noting that early exposure to banking fosters responsibility and financial independence.

Ghinter Yombon Copic when highlighting the role of technology in advancing financial literacy, stated that digital tools have increased accessibility and impact, especially among young people.

In total, 31 students opened Sumatin accounts with BSP during the visit. Some students also shared their thoughts on opening their first bank accounts:

Wilford Wangi said he felt happy and more in control of his money, with plans to save regularly.

Cornelius Sanigum expressed relief, as he had been trying for months to open an account, with saving as his main goal.

Kaylah Mareva shared her excitement, saying she now felt more independent and was eager to learn how to budget effectively.

Nekidoleya Annettee Kora described the experience as new and unfamiliar but she was positive and she, too, plans to save.

Ends.

 

For further information on the work of CEFI please contact CEFI Communications Team: +675 3225300, email: lomaro@thecefi.org  or visit www.thecefi.org

 

Captions:

Image 1- Day 2: Kopkop Grade 10 students and their teacher pose for a group photo with CEFI and BSP staff on Day 2 of the programme.

Image 2 – Day 2: Mr Albert Mokis Ahabh, NFIS Implementation Coordinator at CEFI, facilitates a budgeting and savings activity during the session. He is pictured here assisting Sheila Kalamoroh with the completion of the task.

Image 3 – Day 2: Ms Adelle Auhava, Administrative Officer with CEFI’s Training Unit, and Kora Gini from BSP assist two female students in completing their application forms to open bank accounts.

Image 4 – Day 2: Students in the process of opening bank accounts.

Image 5 – Day 2: Jackson Tasi, Team Leader – Customer Service Officer at MiBank, assists a student with her enquiries regarding opening a bank account.

Image 6 – Day 2: The second batch of Kopkop Grade 10 students proudly display their Sumatin bank cards.

Image 7 – Day 1: Mr Danny Koko, Manager – NFIS and Stakeholder Engagement at CEFI, welcomes the first group of students on Day One.

Image 8 – Day 1: Kopkop Grade 10 students and teachers pose for a group photo with CEFI, BSP, and MiBank staff on Day One.

Image 9  – Day 1: Jackson Tasi, Team Leader – Customer Service Officer at MiBank, demonstrates the different types of banking cards to the students.

Image 10 -– Day 1: Marie Oapaisa, Manager – Market at MiBank, explains various banking products to Eussetus Tuharus.

Image 11 – Day 1: Two male students filling out application forms to open bank accounts.

Image 12– Day 1: The first batch of Kopkop Grade 10 students proudly display their Sumatin bank cards.

 

 

 

Categories
Media Releases

Successful completion of Financial Education Curriculum Validation Workshop marks major milestone for Financial Literacy in PNG

The Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI), in close partnership with the Department of Education (DoE) through its Curriculum Development Division (CDD), has successfully concluded the two-week Financial Education Curriculum Validation Workshop, culminating in the delivery of 40 fully aligned educational resources. This marks an important step in the implementation of the Financial Education in Schools PNG (FESPNG) Project.

The workshop, held from 5th –16th May 2025, brought together a dedicated team of stakeholders, including officers from DoE-CDD, representatives from CEFI, and an external partner from Aflatoun International and Cufa to review and align 13 syllabuses, 13 Teacher Resource Books, and 13 Student Activity Books. This thorough process resulted in the development of eight strands, 16 units, 16 content standards, and benchmarks, reinforcing a consistent and inclusive approach to financial literacy education across all grade levels.

The purpose of the workshop was to support the integration of Financial Literacy Education (FLE) into Papua New Guinea’s Standards-Based Curriculum from Preparatory to Grade 12 and to validate the financial education curriculum materials developed through collaboration between the DoE-CDD, CEFI, Aflatoun International and Cufa.

The objectives of the workshop were to ensure that the financial education content aligns with CEFI’s Financial Literacy Standards and Conceptual Framework, maintaining national relevance and consistency. It also aimed to evaluate the developmental appropriateness of concepts across all grade levels, promoting coherent and age-appropriate progression. Expert input was sought from financial literacy technical advisors to enhance the accuracy and contextual suitability of the content. Additionally, feedback from CEFI and external partners was gathered to confirm the curriculum’s relevance to real-life financial challenges. Finally, the workshop validated the templates of the Teacher Resource Books and Student Activity Books to ensure they are well-structured, accessible, and practical for classroom use.

Opening the workshop, Mr. Peter Samuel, Acting Executive Director of CEFI, acknowledged key partners and contributors, particularly the Department of Education, Aflatoun International, and individual curriculum experts, whose dedication and collaboration have been instrumental in progressing this vital national initiative.

Mr. Samuel emphasized the strategic significance of the workshop, describing it as a critical step ahead of the program’s pilot phase. He stressed that the initiative is among the most impactful CEFI has undertaken to date, with long-term potential to empower future generations with practical financial knowledge and skills.

“This is more than just a workshop it is the groundwork for change in how we prepare our students for life beyond the classroom,” Mr. Samuel said. He further appealed to the Department of Education for continued partnership and support.

The recent workshop also welcomed Aflatoun International as a strategic international partner. Ms Ya Ling Chao, Regional Coordinator for Aflatoun Asia, travelled to PNG for the May workshop, commending the country’s dedication to integrating financial education. Speaking at the opening, Ms Chao described the initiative as “a historic milestone” and one of the most proactive collaborations she has encountered in the region.

On Friday, 16 May 2025, George Awap, Assistant Governor – Financial System Development and Innovation Group- Bank of Papua New Guinea, gave an impactful message at the closing of the Financial Education Curriculum Alignment Workshop.

Mr Awap thanked CEFI & DoE-CDD for their hard work during the two-week workshop. He praised their teamwork and also remembered past leaders who helped bring financial education to life. “We are building on the hard work of those who came before us,” he said, naming former CEFI Executive Director, Mr. Saliya Ranasinghe for his early efforts.

Mr. Awap’s key message was about Financial Education becoming a national focus. “It should not only teach people how money works but also help them change their thinking and use this knowledge in real life,” Mr. Awap said.

He said making a financial education curriculum is not easy. It must meet the needs of many different people and communities. There are challenges and these include reaching remote schools, finding enough money, and helping people especially adults change their way of thinking about money. “It’s not just about lessons. It’s about changing habits,” he said.

Mr Awap explained that financial education is now a national priority and is part of the government’s wider plans. He encouraged Papua New Guineans to trust the financial system, and for students to use what they learn in real life.

“It’s about giving the students the right knowledge and knowledge that empowers them both inside and outside the classroom,” he said.

Mr Steven Tandale, First Assistant Secretary at the DoE’s-CDD, praised the dedication and collaborative spirit of the workshop participants. He emphaized the critical role that writing, research, and continuous improvement play in curriculum development and encouraged educators to view challenges as opportunities brought for innovation.

Mr Tandale also acknowledged the practical barriers to implementation such as logistics, printing, and delivery to remote schools but affirmed that the team’s resourcefulness had led to creative solutions, including improved communication methods and enhanced documentation strategies.

This collaborative effort emphasizes a shared commitment to integrating financial literacy into the Standards Based Curriculum from Preparatory to Grade 12. The FE curriculum is critical in empowering students with essential financial knowledge, practical skills, and value based learning fostering lifelong learning, financial resilience, and responsible citizenship.

In total, 40 educational documents have been produced across the three workshops (two similar workshops held in 2024), all of which were funded by CEFI and delivered in collaboration with the DoE. This outstanding effort marks a national commitment to embedding financial literacy across all stages of formal education in Papua New Guinea.

The workshop brought together CEFI, DoE-CDD, and Aflatoun International to align core financial literacy concepts across all grade levels—from early childhood to upper secondary. Through collaboration, the workshop aims to ensure consistency, relevance, and effective implementation, helping equip students with essential financial life skills for a more inclusive society.

Ends.

For further information on the work of CEFI please contact CEFI Communications Team: +675 3225300, email: lomaro@thecefi.org  or visit www.thecefi.org

 

Captions:

Image 1:
Mr George Awap, Assistant Governor, Financial System Development and Innovation Group, delivers his keynote address at the closing of the two-week FE Curriculum Alignment Workshop at Tuhava Town Resort on Friday, 16 May 2025.

Image 2:
Mr Steven Tandale, First Assistant Secretary at the Department of Education’s Curriculum Development Division (DoE–CDD), delivers his opening remarks at the closing of the two-week FE Curriculum Alignment Workshop at Tuhava Town Resort on Friday, 16 May 2025.

Image 3:
Ms Jill Pijui, Manager – Financial Inclusion & Capacity Development, and Mr Sebastian Mugup explain the Financial Education (FE) Content Alignment Chart to Mr George Awap, Assistant Governor, Financial System Development and Innovation Group.

Image 4:
The CEFI Training Team and DoE–CDD Team pose for a group photo with Mr George Awap, Assistant Governor, Financial System Development and Innovation Group (seated, front row, third from left), and Mr Steven Tandale, First Assistant Secretary at the DoE–CDD (seated, front row, second from left) at the closing of the workshop on Friday 16 May, 2025.

Image 5:
Mr Peter Samuel, CEFI Acting Executive Director, delivers his opening speech at the opening of the two-week FE Curriculum Alignment Workshop at Tuhava Town Resort on Monday, 05 May 2025.

Image 6:
Ms. Ya Ling Chao, Regional Coordinator for Aflatoun Asia, delivers her remarks at the opening of the two-week FE Curriculum Alignment Workshop at Tuhava Town Resort on Monday, 05 May 2025.

Image 7:
Two participants from the DoE–CDD working on the financial education curriculum during the workshop.

Image 8:
The CEFI Training Team and DoE–CDD Team pose for a group photo with Mr Peter Samuel, CEFI Acting Executive Director (seated, front row, third from left), and Ms. Ya Ling Chao, Regional Coordinator for Aflatoun Asia (seated, front row, second from left) at the opening of the workshop on Monday 05 May 2025.

Image 9:

Ms. Ya Ling Chao, Regional Coordinator for Aflatoun Asia delivers a presentation during the opening of the workshop.

Image 10:

The Financial Educational Alignment Chart developed during the workshop.

 

Image 11:

Some of the strands developed during the workshop. Image 11 shows the ‘Strand 8-Credit’.

Image 12:

Some of the strands developed during the workshop. Image 12 shows ‘Strand 4-Banks’.

 

Categories
Impact Stories

Championing Financial Literacy in Rural PNG

Lilly Namunu, a 45-year-old entrepreneur from Milne Bay Province, is a powerful force for change in her community. As the Director of Shualink PNG Ltd, Lilly is using her experience and passion to drive financial empowerment, particularly for women in rural areas. Her work was recently recognized at the inaugural Excellence Awards hosted by the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) on 22 November 2024, where she received the Financial Advocate Award.

Lilly holds a Diploma in Accounting and is a mother of three. Despite the personal challenges of being separated, she has dedicated herself to creating opportunities for others. Through Shualink PNG Ltd, based in Alotau, Milne Bay province, she delivers a wide range of services:

  • Financial literacy and entrepreneurial training
  • MiBank account opening
  • Solar lighting distribution
  • Business consultations
  • Financial inclusion campaigns

Now in its fifth year, Lilly’s business has a diverse customer base that includes provincial and local governments, churches, wards, schools, youth groups, and women across Milne Bay Province. Shualink PNG Ltd is fully registered with the Investment Promotion Authority  and the Internal Revenue Commission.

Lilly’s core motivation lies in empowering rural women by helping them achieve financial independence. “Financial freedom gives women greater urgency, security, and the ability to care for their families without economic constraints,” she says.

However, her journey hasn’t been without its challenges. She points to language barriers in training, delayed payments affecting cash flow, cultural differences, and law and order issues as major obstacles. To expand her reach, Lilly says she needs support in the form of training materials, office space, and further training through CEFI.

Her involvement with CEFI has seen positive changes. The Financial Literacy Training of Trainers (TOT) programme helped her make informed financial decisions for her business and encouraged her to instill similar knowledge in rural communities. “If we can manage to save every toea, we can achieve more. That’s the message I now pass on,” she explains.

Lilly’s impact is already evident. Her efforts are helping everyday Papua New Guineans access financial services, make better financial decisions, improve living standards, and strengthen their small businesses.

Her legacy message to young women is both inspiring and practical: “Cultivate a fierce desire for financial independence. Let it guide your choices and free you to pursue your passions. Be resilient, creative, and solution-focused. You have the power to build, to innovate, and to leave your unique mark on the world.”

Through her leadership and commitment, Lilly continues to champion financial literacy and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs in Papua New Guinea.

Image Caption: Lilly was named the inaugural recipient of the Financial Advocate Award. She is pictured with the Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea, Ms Elizabeth Genia, at the 2024 awards ceremony. The Governor  presented Lilly with her award.

Categories
Impact Stories

Empowering Change Through Financial Literacy: Shanne Huambi’s Story

Shanne Huambi, a 27-year-old Compliance Officer from East Sepik and East New Britain, recently took a bold step towards financial empowerment by attending a Financial Literacy Training at Rio’s Lamana Hotel in Port Moresby. The  two day training  delivered by CEFI from 27th to 28th February 2025 focused on critical modules such as Savings and Budgeting.

Before the training, Shanne admitted to struggling with overspending and poor budgeting habits common challenges faced by many young families. Although she was aware that her financial behavior needed improvement, she lacked the tools and knowledge to make lasting changes.

The training became a turning point. Shanne shared that she gained a better understanding of budgeting and how to manage money within her income. “It helped me realize the importance of putting financial knowledge into practice,” she said. The session on tracking monthly income and expenses particularly Activity 1 on creating a Simple Household Budget resonated most with her.

As a result of the training, Shanne has begun applying her new knowledge at home, which she believes will help uplift her family’s standard of living. The skills she’s developed not only support her personal growth but also empower her to educate her friends, family, and colleagues.

While she still faces challenges like impulse buying, Shanne is optimistic and committed to overcoming them through continued practice and discipline. Her story is a shining example of how financial literacy can inspire behavioral change and build more secure futures.

Image Caption: Shanne is positive that she will overcome challenges now that she has the financial knowledge.

Categories
Impact Stories Uncategorized

Saving Smart: One Woman’s Journey to Financial Confidence

Rita Krai, a 37-year-old married mother of five from Manda village in the Western Highlands, is a self-employed Rural Engagement Officer. Despite having completed Grade 12, Rita struggled with managing her finances—particularly with budgeting and saving. However, her financial outlook took a positive turn after attending a Financial Literacy Training course facilitated by the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion CEFI, in Port Moresby from 3rd to 7th March, 2025.

Before the training, Rita faced several financial challenges, including difficulties in managing money effectively and saving for future needs. She admitted to spending unwisely without prioritizing essential needs. The training, which focused on modules such as Savings and Budgeting, equipped her with practical knowledge and strategies to take control of her finances.

Following the training, Rita adopted a more disciplined approach to spending. She now focuses on meeting essential needs and actively sets aside money for savings. This change has not only improved her personal financial situation but also positively influenced her family. By sharing what she learnt, her household now manages to stretch their finances over two weeks and work towards long-term goals such as purchasing a vehicle and covering school fees.

Rita noted that one of the standout aspects of the training was the emphasis on saving. She is confident in applying the techniques she learnt and is determined to train others in her community. However, she acknowledges that family obligations remain a challenge but believes the training has given her the confidence to manage such pressures more effectively.

Rita’s story is an example of how targeted financial education can create lasting behavioral change and contribute to improved livelihoods in rural communities.

Image Caption: Rita (middle) with two of her colleagues who traveled in from Mt. Hagen to attend the Financial Literacy training.

Categories
Impact Stories

Lina’s Journey Towards Financial Empowerment

For Lina Wingawi, a 60-year-old Business Development Officer from East Sepik, financial management wasn’t always a strong point. Despite her university education and professional role, she often found herself spending without clear budgeting, making financial decisions that didn’t align with long-term goals. That all changed in March 2025 when she attended a Financial Literacy Training session facilitated by CEFI.

The training, focused on savings and budgeting, was a turning point for Lina. “Before the training, I didn’t make daily or weekly budgets and didn’t follow a strict spending plan,” she admitted. “Sometimes I spent money unwisely.” However, after attending the sessions, Lina began to implement disciplined budgeting practices. “Now, I follow my budget strictly and try to save as much as I can,” she said, highlighting the importance of preparing for school fees and unexpected expenses.

The training had an immediate and practical impact. During the sessions, Lina was temporarily off the payroll, yet she still managed to save enough to cover her travel costs. “There was no unnecessary spending,” she shared proudly.

Lina was particularly impressed by the delivery of the training. “The PowerPoint presentations and practical sessions using flip charts stood out the most,” she noted. Inspired by the techniques used by her trainer, she is eager to pass on the knowledge. “I want to go back and train clients to budget and save their earnings.”

Lina’s story is a testament to how targeted financial education can change habits, improve livelihoods, and empower individuals to uplift not only themselves but their communities as well.

Image Caption:  Lina is determined to educate her community on Financial Literacy and thanks CEFI for the training.

Categories
Impact Stories

Ezekiel aims to educate his community on savings and budgeting

At just 24, Ezekiel Lakain, a Security Officer from Sirunki in Enga Province, is already making strides toward building a more financially stable future not only for himself, but also for his wider community. After completing Grade 12, Ezekiel’s financial knowledge was limited, often leading to impulsive spending and a lack of savings. However, everything changed in March 2025 when he attended a Financial Literacy Training conducted by CEFI Office in Port Moresby.

The training, which focused on savings and budgeting, had a profound impact on Ezekiel. “Before the training, I struggled to manage my spending,” he admitted. “But now, I have a better plan for saving and budgeting my money.” One of the standout techniques for him was learning about different income streams and creating structured budgeting plans to manage outflows effectively.

Beyond his personal development, Ezekiel is passionate about sharing what he’s learnt. He plans to conduct informal training sessions with families and friends in his community, aiming to uplift their living standards through practical financial knowledge. “Even though I used to try saving on my own, this training gave me the tools and confidence to not only do it better but to also teach others,” he said.

Despite ongoing challenges, including saving for further education amidst financial pressures, Ezekiel remains optimistic. He believes the training has equipped him with not just knowledge, but the discipline and mindset to rise above these obstacles.

Ezekiel’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right support and education, financial literacy can be a catalyst for meaningful change one person, one community at a time.

Image Caption: Ezekiel proudly showing his certificate after successfully completing the Financial Literacy Training

Categories
Impact Stories

How Financial Literacy Changed Solomon’s life

Solomon Peni, a 32-year-old Youth Empowerment Project Officer and driver from the Western Highlands, is living proof that financial literacy can change lives. A husband and father of two, Solomon attended a Financial Literacy Training course delivered by CEFI from 3rd to 7th March at the CEFI Office in Port Moresby. The modules focused on savings and budgeting two topics that would change how Solomon viewed and managed his finances.

Before the training, Solomon admits his spending habits lacked direction. “I used to spend without planning or thinking about long term consequences,” he reflects. However, the training marked a turning point. With the skills gained, Solomon began tracking his expenses, setting realistic budgets, and cutting down on unnecessary spending.

“The training gave me the confidence to make informed financial decisions,” he says. Not only has Solomon managed to reduce his debt, but he’s also been able to increase his savings. These changes have had a direct impact on his family’s quality of life, more funds are now allocated to essentials like housing and healthcare, offering his family greater financial security and peace of mind.

Solomon found the interactive nature of the training particularly impactful. Real-life case studies and group discussions helped ground the concepts in reality. Now, he is eager to share these techniques with friends and family, promoting a culture of financial awareness in his community.

Despite occasional temptations to overspend, Solomon stays focused by reminding himself of his financial goals. “This training was not just an event it was the start of a lifestyle change,” he says.

Solomon’s story is a testament to the power of education when equipped with the right tools, anyone can build a secure financial future.

Image Caption: CEFI Acting Executive Director (left) presents Solomon his certificate following the completion of the financial literacy training.

error: We are sorry, you are not able to copy content. Please content site administrator for access to content.

Join our Mailing list!

Get all latest news, exclusive deals and academy updates.