In the remote village of Kou Kou, nestled within the rugged terrain of Papua New Guinea’s Oro Province, stands Kokoda College—an institution dedicated to bringing hope and opportunity to a region where education is a rare but precious gift. Accessible only by air and foot, with limited electricity and communication infrastructure, Kokoda College has become a beacon of possibility for those who once thought formal education was beyond their reach.
Kokoda College provides post-high school and tertiary education through the Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) program. For many in this isolated region, FODE offers a second chance at education—a chance to re-enroll, improve their GPAs, and ultimately pursue careers that can transform their families’ futures. It’s a program especially crucial for those who left school early, but whose ambitions never faded.
With gender equity at the core of its mission, Kokoda College is committed to expanding opportunities for women and girls, particularly in the teaching and healthcare sectors.
The impact of new infrastructure
In 2023, Acronis partnered with the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) to fund the construction of a new double classroom. This modern, adaptable space came equipped with solar lighting, tablets loaded with learning materials, and facilities designed to accommodate students with disabilities, including ramps, wider doorways, and specialized furniture.
The construction addressed the growing demand for education in the region. Enrollment surged from 175 to 250 students, though the school later adjusted capacity to around 218 students for 2024 to maintain a sustainable and high-quality educational experience. The current target for 2025 is set at 220 students. The new infrastructure also led to an increase in the enrollment of students with disabilities, from 24 in 2023 to 29 in 2024.
A story of determination
Among the many students benefiting from Kokoda College’s programs is Agena, a 43-year-old single father with dreams of becoming a healthcare worker. The COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the fragility of health systems, inspired him to return to school despite the daunting challenge of balancing parenthood, farming, and studies. As a full correspondence student, Agena supports his only child through subsistence farming, all while finding time to volunteer at local health centers.
Agena’s perseverance has paid off. With the flexibility of the FODE program and support from his teachers, he has completed his Grade 10 and 11 education and is now preparing for his Grade 12 exams.
“I took FODE because it is a flexible learning opportunity. I am a single father so the flexibility in learning gives me time to study and look after my family. I know this will benefit me and my family.” — says Agena.
Enhancing academic performance
The improvements to the learning environment are evident not only in enrollment numbers but also in academic performance. Grade 12 students’ average scores rose from 75% in 2022 to 77% in 2024, while the overall assignment average across all grades increased from 73% to 75% in the same period.
In March 2025, the achievements of the 2024 student cohort were celebrated as 160 students graduated from Grade 10 and 12, while 65 more from Grades 9 and 11 advanced to the next academic year. The new facility’s impact on student engagement, focus, and collaboration is undeniable.
A brighter future
Beyond education, the construction of the double classroom has positively impacted the local economy by creating jobs and inspiring greater community involvement. Kokoda College’s partnership with the newly-opened Modawa Institute of Higher Education in Popondetta aims to create pathways for FODE graduates to pursue careers in teaching and healthcare, building a generation of “home-grown” professionals dedicated to serving their local communities.
From just 38 students in 2017 to over 200 annually today, the program’s growth highlights the tremendous demand for quality education in the region.
But most importantly, it highlights the unwavering determination of people like Agena who strive for a better future despite all odds.
Acronis Cyber Foundation Program welcomes individuals, groups, and companies to partner with us to work side-by-side with underserved communities to bring them hope through education.
Contact us to find out more!
