The Ministry of Education and Training (MoET), in partnership with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Justice and Community Services, UNICEF, Parenting for Lifelong Health, and community organisations, has co-designed a new Parenting Toolkit to strengthen families and communities in Vanuatu.

The two-day workshop brought together government agencies, non-government organisations, faith-based groups, and community representatives to identify priorities for parenting, define key modules, and develop culturally grounded resources.

Parenting in Vanuatu is shaped by collective values, extended family systems, and faith traditions. However, rapid changes such as urbanisation, migration, teenage parenthood, and the impacts of climate change are putting new pressures on traditional caregiving systems. These challenges affect family well-being, with research showing high rates of family and child violence.

Mrs Katherine Faigao, UNICEF Pacific’s Officer in Charge of the Vanuatu Field Office, said the collaborative approach allows Vanuatu to build on its cultural strengths while addressing modern realities. “This collective effort ensures parents and caregivers have the tools they need to raise children in safe, nurturing environments,” she said.

MoET’s Director General, Mrs Cherol Ala Ianna, said the toolkit represents an important opportunity. “Vanuatu, like many Pacific nations, faces challenges that impact children and families. Yet, we also hold deep cultural strengths and resilient communities. This workshop is helping us shape practical tools that reflect our realities and support positive parenting across Vanuatu.”

The Parenting Toolkit will be freely available to government departments, local organisations, churches, and community groups. It will include modules covering nutrition, health, hygiene, protection, and education, ensuring caregivers are supported throughout their children’s growth, from early years to adolescence.

By developing this toolkit, Vanuatu takes a major step forward in promoting nurturing care, reducing violence, and strengthening family resilience. The initiative contributes to the Vanuatu National Sustainable Development Plan 2016–2030 and aligns with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Photos supplied.