In a stirring conclusion to the 34th Papua New Guinea Senior Education Officers Conference, the country’s top education leaders undertook a special journey to Kokoda College, reaffirming a powerful partnership driving education reform across the nation.
The delegation, which included senior officials from the Department of Education and provincial governments, travelled three hours through Oro Province’s rugged terrain to visit Kokoda College—described as the "beating heart" of the Kokoda Track Foundation’s (KTF) education efforts.
More than a symbolic gesture, the visit marked a recommitment to a shared vision for inclusive, quality education across Papua New Guinea.
For more than two decades, the Kokoda Track Foundation has placed education at the centre of its mission. Over 80% of KTF’s work is focused on delivering educational access and opportunity, particularly in remote and underserved communities.
Since 2017, over 10,000 students have benefited from KTF's programs, with more than 3,000 currently enrolled across 14 Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) colleges spanning six provinces. FODE graduation rates are rising steadily—between 75–81%—thanks in part to KTF’s innovative “FODE patrols” that take lessons into some of PNG’s hardest-to-reach areas.
“Education reaches into the heart of our communities. It shapes opportunity, strengthens equity, and builds nations,” said Dr. Genevieve Nelson, CEO of KTF.
She said, “We are proud to walk alongside our partners in education to bring learning to where it’s needed most.”
KTF’s impact spans the full educational journey—from early childhood through to tertiary training:
· Early Childhood Education (ECE): Teaching manuals and dedicated classroom spaces are being rolled out in preparation for the introduction of a national ECE curriculum and policy.
Elementary & Primary Schools: Teachers are supported to upgrade to Diploma qualifications, while targeted coaching, in-service training, and resource support are delivering statistically significant literacy gains—particularly in Western Province, in partnership with the Sustainable Development Program (SDP).
Tertiary Education: At Balimo College, KTF is preparing the next generation of educators through Diploma of Teaching programs—ensuring skilled teachers lead classrooms across PNG.
Since its establishment by KTF in 2012, Kokoda College has grown into a flagship institution. The college now features upgraded facilities, including a new solar-powered mini-grid and a fully equipped inclusive ICT lab with assistive technologies for students with disabilities—supporting equitable access to education for all learners.
The visiting delegation included leaders such as Maino Vegoli (Oro), Charlie Buia (Western), and Roma Tuidam (Milne Bay)—all long-standing partners of KTF.
Their presence underscored the critical role of provincial leadership in driving education reforms that reach communities in every corner of the country.
Closing the visit, Dr. Uke Kombra, Secretary of the Department of Education, described KTF’s work as nothing short of “miraculous,” commending the Foundation for its unwavering dedication to reaching the furthest and most forgotten communities.
“This visit is more than a site inspection—it is a powerful statement of what can be achieved when government, civil society, and communities work hand in hand,” Dr. Kombra said.
KTF’s work demonstrates the transformative potential of long-term, deeply rooted partnerships.
By aligning with national education goals and provincial priorities, the Foundation is helping shape a more inclusive, effective, and far-reaching education system for Papua New Guinea.
This visit stands not only as a milestone in KTF’s journey—but as a reminder of what is possible when partnership is more than a word.
When it is purpose in action, progress shared, and a collective commitment to a better, brighter future for every child in Papua New Guinea.
