Oaktree has invested over $2.5 million in projects that help break the cycle of poverty. We’ve had 10 projects across 6 countries, and focus entirely on education. We think education is the most powerful tool we have to help developing communities lift themselves out of poverty. All our overseas work is done in line with our projects philosophy.
We’ve worked in many places, but Papua New Guinea is a great example…
In the rural highlands of PNG, there’s Yangis. An isolated community, accessible only by 2 days walk, or a light aircraft. For 15 years in Yangis, there was no school, and no teachers. Periodically the government would try to send teachers – but it was too remote, and no teachers ever stayed – they were initimidated by the different languages, cultures and people of that region.
Our response was grounded in local solutions. In 2008, we chose 8 locals and provided them with rural bonded scholarships – so that they could go to university and get trained as teachers. The project: Yangis Teacher Training College, with a local partner there.
Why a local partner? Because at Oaktree, we love a good partnership. And when it comes to development, we know it works. Like all of our project partners, they’re a local organisation, with strong connections into the communities they work in and a track record of success.
Success: In 2010, these 8 locals returned to their remote community. With a passion for helping kids, and a strong connection to their community, they reopened the primary school, and over 400 students, of all ages, queued up to enrol.
There are stories like this in each of our project countries. Where young people benefit, and will continue to benefit, from direct investments in their futures.
Check out Our Work Overseas for more.
Follow us