This policy addresses literacy activities, which are outside of the formal education system. A literacy plan must show how the policy is to be implemented. The NLAC, through its executive arm, the NLAS, is charged with the responsibility of implementing this policy. One of the recommendations of the Task Force is that the NLAC be given the task of developing a literacy plan to implement this policy. Literacy is not just reading and writing.
Language is central to individual and group affiliation and culture maintenance.
Literacy in PNG should be started in the vernacular languages of the communities so that it is meaningful and sustainable. It is a statement of national literacy needs, priorities and goals to encourage programmes that will help meet the needs of children and adults who are not catered for by the formal education sector. They also need an opportunity to become proficient in speaking, reading and writing their mother tongue as well as one or more of the national languages. The policy targets children and adults who are not catered for by the formal education system. Children less than six years old are the responsibility of their parents and community and are not addressed in this policy.