In a country where many young people are left behind by the formal education system, Sepik FC Education Services, through its Haniak Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) Centre, is proving that community-based initiatives can offer a vital second chance for learners determined to complete their education.
Despite limited resources and a small student cohort reaching national examination level in 2025, the Haniak FODE Centre recorded encouraging improvements in student performance, highlighting the importance of alternative education pathways in Papua New Guinea.
Out of 20 students enrolled at the centre from Grades 7 to 12, only six students—two Grade 10s and four Grade 12s—were able to sit for the FODE National Examinations this year. According to Sepik FC Director for Sports and Education Services, Mr. Clarence Hukahu, the results reflect both the challenges facing FODE centres and the resilience of students who remain committed to learning.
“Many of our students come to us after dropping out of the formal school system due to school fee difficulties, family responsibilities, or lack of access to secondary schools,” Mr. Hukahu said.
He noted that although the number of examination candidates was small, the academic progress recorded by those who sat the exams was significant.
“Students who previously recorded fails and basic passes in Grade 10, and D grades in Grade 12 subjects, improved by one to two grade levels. This shows that with consistent support and guidance, these students are capable of achieving better outcomes,” he said.
The Haniak FODE Centre operates under Sepik FC Education Services, a program that integrates education development with sports and youth empowerment. Mr. Hukahu explained that the initiative is driven largely by community support, volunteers, and modest student contributions, rather than large-scale government funding.
"Our work is about giving young people another opportunity to continue their education. FODE is not an easy pathway, but it is often the only option available to those who missed out on mainstream schooling,” he said.
Sepik FC Education Services has confirmed that the Haniak FODE program will continue in 2026, with fees expected to remain unchanged in order to remain affordable for students and families. The fee structure includes a K170 registration fee, K150 per subject for upgrading, K60 per subject for continuing students, K2 per hour for contact sessions, and K2 per assignment for assessment marking.
Looking ahead, Sepik FC Education Services plans to expand its reach beyond Haniak. Plans are underway to extend education services to Koil Island to cater for students from the Southern Islands, as well as to establish similar support programs in Port Moresby.
Mr. Hukahu said the expansion is aimed at reaching marginalized youths who are geographically isolated or unable to access formal secondary schools.
“Education should not stop because of where a student lives or their financial situation. Our goal is to bring education closer to the people,” he said.
He acknowledged the support of Sepik FC board members, volunteers, support staff, teachers, sponsors, parents, and community members, stating that their collective effort continues to sustain the program.
As Papua New Guinea continues to reform its education system, initiatives such as the Haniak FODE Centre demonstrate how grassroots efforts can complement national policies by addressing gaps in access and retention—especially for students seeking a second chance to complete their education.
“Always moving forward and onwards,” Mr. Hukahu said.
