Dorris Charles
Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions because of the opportunity to impart knowledge and skills and influence the positive direction of a young person’s life.
“Seeing students finally make a breakthrough and understand something they’ve been struggling with gets me excited, as I can feel the direct impact of our work daily,” said Dorris Charles, Oil Search Foundation (OSF) scholarship recipient.
“Becoming a teacher was my dream. I’ve seen young children in my community live life according to what they learn and who they learn it from, and so I thought, if I am able to impart good values to the youth, they will follow what I teach and will also be influencers to their peers.”
“This motivated me to take up teaching. But to achieve this dream, I had to go to school. My father who was a subsistence farmer sold fresh produce at the market to pay for my tuition fees. It was only until my third year of studies at the University of Goroka (UOG) where I heard of the OSF Scholarships Program.”
“I decided to apply because I knew it will help ease the financial burden from my father.”
“Having completed my bachelor’s degree in Education at UOG last year, I wanted to work in a remote community. Receiving news that I was posted to Kerema Coronation Secondary School gave me so much satisfaction. I know that I am ready to teach and nurture young children to become future leaders of Papua New Guinea (PNG).” adds Dorris.
OSF Executive Manager, Karlyne Pukaikia upon hearing of Dorris’ success said, “the scholarships program is all about helping our young Papua New Guinean leaders complete their education so that they can help develop PNG.”
“And for Dorris, there is no better way to begin her teaching career by serving in a place where quality education is hard to deliver and is needed the most. I am certain she will positively impact the lives of her students.” adds Pukaikia.
Since 2019, OSF supported four final year students from University of Goroka to complete their bachelor’s degree in education. Commencing 2021 academic year, all four of these recipients will now be qualified teachers in PNG.
From 2018 – 2021, OSF has managed 92 health, education and business scholarships on behalf of itself and its partners.
