"I used to be unable to read; I didn't even recognize letters or numbers. After becoming a participant in the literacy program, I began to learn about letters like 'a,' 'b,' 'c,' and so on. I only attended school until the second grade of elementary school before dropping out because my parents needed me to work in the fields. Now, although I am not yet fluent in reading, I am confident that I will eventually be able to read and write," said Mrs. Sabina, a middle-aged woman and a participant in the New Bible Reader Program in Siberut, Mentawai Islands.

The New Bible Readers Program (PBA) is a literacy initiative based on the Bible program. This program reflects the Indonesian Bible Society’s (LAI) commitment to equipping Christians with basic reading and writing skills. The ability to read and understand the Word of God is fundamental for spiritual growth, yet inaccessible to those who cannot read the Bible.

The PBA program in Siberut, Mentawai Islands, commenced in April 2023. After a year of teaching and learning activities, the second phase of evaluation is scheduled for April 2024. Out of a total of 1,322 program participants, 1,122 individuals (84.87%) successfully completed the Siberut PBA program, signifying its success in the region.

Encouraged by the positive outcomes of the PBA program in various regions, LAI is committed to expanding its efforts to assist other communities affected by illiteracy. In 2025, the program will be implemented in South Nias, continuing the mission to empower God's people with literacy skills and access to His Word.

Let's support the learning community in South Nias so that they will become skilled at reading and writing, which will not only improve their ability to understand God's Word, but also help them become more active and productive members of society.

Support can be delivered through the Indonesian Bible Society Foundation account via:

• BANK MANDIRI CABANG GAMBIR A.N. YAYASAN LEMBAGA ALKITAB INDONESIA No. Rek. 119.008.0000126
• BANK BCA CABANG MATRAMAN A.N. YAYASAN LEMBAGA ALKITAB INDONESIA No. Rek. 3423016261
• BANK BRI CABANG KRAMAT RAYA A. N. YAYASAN LEMBAGA ALKITAB INDONESIA No. Rek. 033501000281304
• BANK BNI CABANG KRAMAT RAYA A. N. YAYASAN LEMBAGA ALKITAB INDONESIA No. Rek. 0010534054

Support via QRIS, Gopay, Dana, and Ovo. For more information, contact WhatsApp LAI: 0811-1925-400 / 0812-8003-8534.