Nathan Andes’ Literacy Revolution in Joyce Bay
IN the heart of Port Moresby’s Kilakila suburb, where the challenges of crime, poverty, and despair cast long shadows, a beacon of hope is emerging. Joyce Bay, once known for its struggles, is witnessing a transformation driven by the determination and vision of one man—Nathan Andes.
Nathan, who grew up in Joyce Bay during the turbulent 1980s and 90s, was all too familiar with the hardships that plagued his community. But instead of being overwhelmed by the violence and adversity, Nathan chose a different path—one of resilience and hope. His journey has led to the creation of the “Just in Time Literacy School,” a small yet powerful initiative that is changing the lives of Joyce Bay’s youngest residents.
Born in Wabag, Enga Province, Nathan relocated to Joyce Bay as a child. He quickly recognized that education was the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and crime that held his community in its grip. However, the resources were scarce, and the environment was far from conducive to learning. Despite these challenges, Nathan was determined to make a difference. He took it upon himself to establish the Just in Time Literacy School, a safe haven for children under the age of eight, where they could learn to read and write—skills that would open doors to a better future.
Starting the school was no easy feat. Nathan initially funded the project out of his own pocket, facing skepticism and doubt from many in the community. Yet, his unwavering commitment began to attract attention. With the support of his mentor and pastor, and backing from organizations like Capital Insurance, Nathan’s vision started to take shape. Local media also played a crucial role in amplifying his message, bringing much-needed awareness to the initiative.
Today, the Just in Time Literacy School stands as a symbol of hope in Joyce Bay. It provides a critical lifeline for children who, just a few years ago, had little to look forward to. Now, they have a place to learn, grow, and imagine a brighter future. The school has not only improved literacy rates but has also instilled a sense of purpose and possibility in the community’s youngest members.
Nathan’s work goes beyond teaching children to read and write; it is about reclaiming the future of an entire community. Joyce Bay, once synonymous with hardship, is now becoming a hub of hope and education. Nathan’s efforts highlight the transformative power of grassroots initiatives, showing that even in the most challenging circumstances, change is possible.
But while Nathan’s story is inspiring, it also raises important questions about the broader role of government and society in supporting such endeavors. Joyce Bay’s turnaround, driven by one man’s vision, should not be an isolated case. Communities across Papua New Guinea face similar challenges and would greatly benefit from sustained support, both in terms of resources and policy initiatives. Nathan’s success underscores the need for a collective effort to ensure that grassroots movements like the Just in Time Literacy School can thrive and multiply.
One of the most recent additions to Nathan’s school is a library, a small but significant space that offers more than just books. For the children and youth of Joyce Bay, it is a sanctuary—a place where they can dream, explore, and imagine possibilities far beyond their daily struggles. The library represents a gateway to a world of knowledge and opportunity, a world that many in Joyce Bay have never known before.
Nathan Andes’ literacy revolution in Joyce Bay is a blueprint for change in similar communities across Papua New Guinea. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact that one person’s determination can have on an entire community. It is also a call to action for policymakers, educators, and citizens alike to recognize the transformative power of education and to invest in it at all levels.
The Just in Time Literacy School may have started as a small, personal project, but its impact is already reverberating throughout Joyce Bay—and with continued support, it could resonate far beyond.