Flexible Open & Distance Education (FODE)

The five second-chance FODE Colleges and Satellite hubs have been established across the Western Province as part of SDP’s education program. The graduation ceremonies were held across Balimo, Lake Murray, Morehead and Kiunga, graduating 408 Grade 10 and 12 students - the largest-ever graduating cohort - and hundred more Grade 9 and 11 students progressing to their next year of studies.

FODE Principal Anthony Rayappan said Independence is a time to stand tall among all the nations and showcase our distinct identity.  

“Every year we celebrate independence we must think, embrace and respect those forefathers, leaders and the freedom fighters,” he said.

He said it was a time to reflect on the struggles they went through to get the nation this far.

“Today we are enjoying the fruit of the seed they sewed 48 years ago,” he said.

Principal, Cephas Malum, said they have met all requirements but are still waiting.

The Lae Community College facilitates Flexible Open & Distance Education (FODE), and it mostly takes in students that have been pushed out of the formal education system.

Over 1,000 students, including those with disabilities, are given a second chance every year to upgrade their marks and pursue their dreams. 

Principal Cephas Malum, however, said over 50 students who did their Grade 12 in 2018 are still waiting for their certificates.

International development organisation, KTF, partnered with the PNG Sustainable Development Program (SDP) and the Member for Middle Fly, Roy Biyama, to make this possible.

It is the first stage of planned further developments at the college, which will see the facility eventually deliver pre-service and in-service teacher training at a School of Education as well as training for community health workers and other health professionals at a School of Health.