The Santos Foundation has partnered with the Pimaga Vocational Education Training (VET) to provide greater opportunities for over 60 young people from the local Kutubu area, in the Southern Highlands Province. This allows them a second chance to re-enter the education system, and upgrade their high school qualifications through a newly established Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) Centre. Santos Foundation said this initiative is part of its commitment under its Youth Opportunities Program to focus on improving opportunities for young people close to their home locations. The collaboration is possible thanks to support from Digikesen Training & Consultancy, making FODE now operational in Pimaga. More work is currently underway to reinforce and support teaching staff and young people in the local area to effectively utilize the services offered by the Centre. Sixty-six (66) students commenced FODE courses this year - this includes 50 students in Grade 11; and 16 in Grade 10, significantly boosting potential graduation numbers for the Kutubu area. In addition to this significant milestone, textbooks for all enrolled students were successfully distributed, ensuring all students having the necessary materials for their studies, which enables them to actively engage with the curriculum, and help them complete their assignments. “According to a 2019 survey the majority of young people determined they wanted to remain in Kutubu,” said Anthony Uechtritz, who is the Senior Program Manager for the Santos Foundation’s Youth Opportunities Program. “It is important we support them to do so for their development and the development of their district.” Pimaga VET Principle Mr. Warubi also expressed gratitude to Santos Foundation and Digikesen for the time and effort towards the project within Kutubu Local Level Government. “This would not have been possible without your support, and we are committed to ensuring the success of FODE.” FODE provides a vital educational opportunity for early school leavers in Papua New Guinea, especially those in remote and rural areas, and is a program endorsed by the National Department of Education, enables students to take on studies at the level they last completed and continue on to secure a Grade 12 qualification. FODE also offers a pathway for individuals to improve their grades for tertiary education entry. By addressing the challenges of distance, limited spaces in schools, teacher shortages, and financial constraints, FODE empowers learners to pursue their academic and professional aspirations.