By almost any measure, Papua New Guinea is one of the most socially and economically disadvantaged countries in the Asia Pacific region.  

PNG is currently facing its third economic crisis in 10 years, in the midst of declining living standards and a deterioration of law and order. Corruption is endemic and consumer and business confidence have collapsed.  

In 1999 the World Bank reported the following data in relation to key social and economic indicators in PNG:  

"37.5% of the population is living at or below the poverty line. 93.5% of the poor population live in rural areas. 30% of children under the age of 5 are classified as malnourished.  

Despite some gains in recent years, the country still has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, and by regional standards high infant mortality and low life expectancy.  

Illiteracy rates are high, particularly for women with 28.6% of males aged 15+ classified as illiterate, compared with 44% of females in the same age group.  

87% of primary school age boys are enrolled at school, compared with 74% of girls. At least 60% of males progress to Year 5 at school, along with 58% of girls.  

Earlier data from 1994 reported that enrollment rates for secondary school age girls were 17.4%, and for boys 21.3%. Overall only 40% of school age girls attended school."

World Bank
• Papua New Guinea at a Glance
• Data Profile

AIDS/HIV
• UNDP You and Aids Profile
• UNAIDS

Foundation Projects

The Lasallian Foundation supports the developmental and emergency relief projects of the De La Salle Brothers in Papua New Guinea.

Project Spotlight

Hohola Youth Development Centre

The Hohola Youth Development Centre was established in 1972 by the Bridgidine Sisters. In 1993 management was taken over by the De La Salle Brothers, who have been active in PNG for some 60 years. HYDC provides a 3-4 year educational program for over 300 students aged 14-20. Some students have been unable to complete Year 7 and 8 within the school system. Others have completed Year 8 but were unable to make the top 50% to secure enrollment in secondary school. The curriculum aims to provide a broad based education as well as more specific vocational training. Some students are completing their Year 8 certificate by correspondence in classes at the Centre. The rest are taught basic literacy and numeracy, and have access to studies in commerce, art, drama, music, computer and secretarial studies. Girls also study cooking and sewing, whilst boys have access to woodworking, upholstery and metalwork classes, and in the near future, motor mechanics. Work experience is a key part of later year studies, with local firms providing places for students.