The Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) has received an overwhelming K280,000 in support from the Sir Theo Foundation. The financial boost will fund the operations of the Pari and Taurama Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) Centers.
Located in Pari and Taurama, these FODE Centers give students the chance to upgrade their marks, allowing them to secure a spot in Grade 11 or Grade 12 within the education system. Across Papua New Guinea, the Department of Education recorded an enrollment of 100,000 students at FODE centers.
Chairman of the Sir Theo Foundation, George Constantinou, said the partnership reflects the Foundation’s belief that education should remain accessible regardless of the challenges people face.
“One of the convictions held by the Sir Theo Foundation is that a person’s education should not end because life got in the way.
Not everyone gets to walk a straight line through school, and what matters is whether there is a way back on”, said Constantinou.
The Kokoda Track Foundation also works with the PNG Sustainable Development Program in Western Province to support FODE Centers, where 46 percent of the enrolled students are women.
This latest funding for the Port Moresby locations will support the operations of the Pari and Taurama FODE Centers from July 2026 to July 2027. The cheque presentation took place at the Airways Hotel in Port Moresby, bringing the Sir Theo Foundation’s total investment to K720,000 since 2024.
Mr. Constantinou stated that the cheque presentation forms part of the Sir Theo Foundation’s broader commitment to supporting education, health, and community development initiatives that deliver meaningful and lasting outcomes across Papua New Guinea.
“This partnership is about more than funding. It is about investing in people and ensuring young Papua New Guineans have the opportunity to complete their education and build brighter futures for themselves and their communities, said Constantinou.
This initiative demonstrates the Foundation’s commitment to the education sector within the Moresby South electorate. KTF was also formally recognized by the Department of Education for its contribution to flexible learning in Papua New Guinea.
In 2025, a 55 percent increase in enrollment was recorded across the Pari and Taurama FODE Centers, with student numbers rising from 108 to 167. Meanwhile, those who upgraded their Grade 12 marks have either graduated or chosen to continue their tertiary studies.
Mr. Constantinou said the Foundation’s investment was about creating lasting opportunities for young people.
Since 2024, the Foundation has supported KTF with:
- 2024: K160,000
- 2025: K280,000
- 2026: K280,000