Side by Side in Learning: A Father and Son’s Shared Education Journey

At KTF’s Pari & Taurama Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) Centre, Timo Oala and his son, Rarua Timo, have been studying side by side - supporting, encouraging and engaging in a friendly rivalry with one another along the way. Their story is a powerful reminder that education flourishes when strong family support systems are in place.

Last year, Timo enrolled in Grade 11 through FODE to motivate his son, Rarua, who was completing Grade 12 at a local secondary school. This year, their journeys have become even more closely intertwined. Rarua is upgrading his Grade 12 results through Pari & Taurama FODE, while Timo is proudly completing Grade 12 for the very first time - more than twenty years after earning his Grade 10 certificate.

Rarua reflects that on nights when he felt like giving up, seeing his father still studying inspired him to keep going. Today, he dreams of becoming a computer engineer, motivated by his father’s determination and example.

As national exams take place across Papua New Guinea, stories like Timo and Rarua’s remind us that learning is a lifelong journey - and that sometimes, the most powerful lessons are learned together.

For Pari, Taurama and the surrounding communities, second chance education pathways (FODE) are a lifeline. In 2022, just 2% of Grade 8 students were reported to have the opportunity to continue their schooling. Together with the Sir Theo Foundation we are creating pathways of opportunities, hope and a brighter future.

Pari & Taurama FODE is generously supported by the Sir Theo Foundation.