RAWCS Project 33-2007-08, Fomu Education & Health Project, Eastern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea – Sue O’Neill
A school in the clouds, the transformation of Fomu Village
Papua New Guinea is a land of extraordinary beauty, towering mountain ranges, mist-covered valleys, and vibrant cultures that have endured for thousands of years. Nestled deep within the majestic Highlands is a small village called Fomu, a place that reflects both the challenges and the resilience of many remote communities across the country.
For many years, Fomu and its neighbouring villages experienced cycles of tribal conflict that disrupted daily life and forced essential government services to withdraw. Schools closed, clinics shut their doors, and the future for the village children became uncertain. With instability in the region, the government was hesitant to re-establish services.
That began to change when Rotary was invited to support the community in building a primary school. Several teams of dedicated Rotarians made the long journey into the Highlands, working alongside the villagers in this remote yet breathtaking setting. Together they built classrooms, teachers’ houses, and the foundations of something far more important, hope for the next generation.
Working closely with the provincial government, a primary school was officially established in 2008. What followed was a remarkable demonstration of determination by the people of Fomu. The community embraced the school with pride, contributing labour, resources, and unwavering support because they shared one simple vision: giving their children the opportunity for a better future.
As the school became established and successful, the government gradually re-engaged, providing subsidies for educational supplies and eventually funding teachers’ salaries. Today, the school continues to thrive. Each year new groups of students graduate, many now able to continue on to high school, an opportunity that simply did not exist before.
For the visiting Rotarians, the experience was unforgettable. Papua New Guinea’s rich traditions were warmly shared, including meals prepared in the traditional mumu style, food wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground on heated stones. Celebrations were colourful and joyous, with villagers dressed in magnificent traditional attire. Rotarians were often invited to join the festivities, although some visitors politely declined the customary mud body paint!
Fomu’s story is one of partnership, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of a community determined to build a brighter future.