Eleven senior ministry and youth leaders across Buka Island in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville have completed a two-week MAF Technologies basic computer training course, gaining vital digital skills to enhance their gospel teaching and ministry through modern technology.
Story by Kowara Bell
“In the past, I never had the chance to use a computer, whether at home or even in the church,” said Helen Aron, assistant pastor of the United Church in Buka. “Now, I can press any key with confidence and I’m even able to type a letter.”
Helen was among the seven female participants who benefited from the computer training held at the MAF’s newly established base at Hutjena. The base is located on Buka island, situated north of the main island of Bougainville and separated from it by a narrow water passage.
“What really stood out for me in the training was the PowerPoint presentation.”
Although her church had computer equipment, Helen didn’t know how to use it. But after completing the training, she’s feeling much more confident in applying her newly learned skills.
“Today, when I go back to my church, I will have the skills and knowledge to use a computer,” she said.
Also serving other significant ministry roles in the region, Helen understands the vital need for ministry workers to keep up with today’s technology to share the gospel more effectively.
As a leader in the church, I see a great need for those working in ministries to equip themselves and build confidence in using modern tools...
“As a leader in the church, I see a great need for those working in ministries to equip themselves and build confidence in using modern tools so we can meet the standards required today,” Helen said.
Another privileged participant of the training was Pastor Japeth Tola. Coming from a remote community, the learning path was quite challenging for him, but he was able to handle the course.
“Though it was a new learning journey for me, I was able to complete the training, and I thank God for his guidance and for the opportunity to attend,” he said.
Pastor Japeth expressed that it has always been his dream to learn how to use a computer so he can prepare and deliver PowerPoint presentations during his teachings and ministry.
Tracy Norbury from MAF in Bougainville pointed out that this course was only a first taste of the training that her team is working to provide throughout the region.
“Our aim is to help strengthen the church here to meet today’s digital challenges with confidence, skill and authority, facilitating the sharing of God’s Word across generations and communities,” she said.
Tracy emphasised that MAF in Bougainville looks forward to facilitating more computing courses for the region’s under-served communities in the year of 2026.
This initiative follows the establishment of MAF’s programme in the region through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Autonomous Bougainville Government in early 2025.