Our Program Approach - PNG
At the Santos Foundation, we are committed to creating lasting change through our Community Development pillar, fostering social inclusion, generating social value, and driving positive outcomes in local communities.
To address critical gaps in education, infrastructure, and community development, we deliver impact through targeted programs such as:
- Literacy Libraries Program
Focused on early childhood education, this initiative establishes literacy libraries and provides ongoing teacher training. By equipping children with essential literacy skills, we lay the foundation for lifelong learning and future success. - Small Grants Program
Designed to tackle grassroots issues affecting women and girls, this program empowers communities to develop local solutions. Open to all Santos employees and contractors in PNG, it supports initiatives that promote gender equality and long-term empowerment.
Many communities across PNG face persistent barriers to education, gender equality, and access to essential infrastructure. These gaps limit opportunities for growth and inclusion, particularly for women, children, and youth. Through our flagship initiatives, the Santos Foundation delivers practical, community-led solutions that build capacity, strengthen local partnerships, and empower individuals to thrive. By investing in education, supporting gender equity, and enabling grassroots innovation, we help create resilient and inclusive communities.
Program Spotlight
Literacy Libraries
Strengthening Early Childhood Education in PNG
Access to quality education remains a major challenge in Papua New Guinea, especially in rural areas. With fewer than half of young adults possessing basic literacy and numeracy skills, early childhood education is critical to PNG’s future.
The Literacy Libraries Program, led by the Santos Foundation, addresses this by providing essential learning materials, teacher support, and infrastructure to help children build strong educational foundations. Using the Jolly Phonics method, a fun, multi-sensory approach, children learn key literacy skills through stories, songs, and active engagement.
The program continues to grow through strong partnerships with Buk Bilong Pikinini, local churches, and the Provincial Education Division. By equipping children with essential literacy skills, the Santos Foundation is helping to build a brighter, more inclusive future for PNG.
Program Spotlight
Small Grants
Empowering local change through community-led projects
Many communities across Papua New Guinea face persistent challenges—limited access to clean water, education, health services, and safe environments for women and girls. These issues are often best addressed through locally led solutions, but communities frequently lack the resources to act.
The Small Grants Program, available exclusively to Santos staff and contractors, empowers individuals to lead community projects that respond directly to local needs. Grants of up to PGK10,000 support initiatives that deliver long-term benefits, including improved safety, access to essential services, and skills development. Projects are selected based on criteria such as sweat equity, which promotes community ownership and sustainability.
By equipping our people with the tools to design and deliver transformative projects, the program fosters grassroots innovation and meaningful change.
