Marist Solidarity 2014 Activities Report

2014 ACTIVITIES

REPORT

working in partnership for change

SYRIA

PAKISTAN

INDIA BANGLADESH THAILAND

THE PHILIPPINES

CAMBODIA

ASIA TIMOR-LESTE SOUTH AFRICA

working in partnership for change

Thank you 2

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to all our of our supporters for your generous contributions toward the young people in these countries across MARIST SOLIDARITY 2014 ACTIVITIES REPORTAsia and the Pacific!

INSIDE ABOUT US

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AUSTRALIAN MARIST SOLIDARITY (AMS)

6-19

AMS CHAIRMAN & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REPORT

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AMS PROJECTS UPDATE

10-16

AMS BOARD MEMBERS

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AMS ACFID MEMBER STATEMENT

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AMS FINANCIAL SUMMARY

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MARIST ASIA PACIFIC SOLIDARITY (MAPS)

20-25

MAPS PROJECTS UPDATE

22-24

MAPS FINANCIAL SUMMARY

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MARIST VOLUNTEERING AUSTRALIA (MVA)

26-29

28-29

MVA VOLUNTEERS SUMMARY

BOUGAINVILLE (AR)

SOLOMON ISLANDS

PACIFIC FIJI

AUSTRALIA

working in partnership for change

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ABOUT US

18 year old Sreynick lives at home with her parents in Kampong Cham Province, Cambodia and is studying grade 11 with a dream to attend university.

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WHO WE ARE

Marist Solidarity is the overarching brand of the international aid, development and volunteering agencies of the Marist Brothers Province of Australia. Marist Solidarity facilitates partnerships with communities focussed on overseas aid, education, and community development activities of the Marist Brothers in Asia and the Pacific Islands.

Through the extensive network of Marist Schools around Australia, Marist Solidarity is ideally placed to engage current and former students, associates and the wider Marist Community. It provides a national forum for awareness, immersion, volunteer and fundraising campaigns.

OUR HISTORY

Marist Solidarity has evolved from a long heritage of aid, development and volunteering activities conducted by the Marist Brothers Province of Australia. The Brothers have financially supported and managed overseas aid and development programs in the Solomon Islands since 1938, on Bougainville since 1941, and in other parts of Papua New Guinea since 1950. Today, the Marist Brothers have a presence in Bangladesh, Bougainville, Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Fiji, India, Kiribati, New Caledonia, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, The Philippines, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vanuatu and Vietnam. Marist Solidarity currently supports projects in seventeen of these countries.

Support for young people in these countries is provided through three separate agencies, each sharing a common vision and mission that is achieved through different works. In the tradition of St Marcellin Champagnat...

OUR VISION... is of a world that reflects Marists’ desire that vulnerable young

people are brought towards the centre from the margins through access to education.

OUR MISSION... is to empower young people by enhancing their human dignity and developing their capacity to transform their lives and communities.

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What follows is a report of the major works carried out by each agency in 2014.

AUSTRALIAN MARIST SOLIDARITY The DFAT approved development agency and member of the Australian Council for International Development (ACFID). AMS is a signatory to ACFID’s Code of Conduct. It works in thirteen countries to build community capacity to deliver better quality education, develop skills and promote leadership.

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ABN 46 373 535 209

Photograph by Conor Ashleigh

MARIST ASIA-PACIFIC SOLIDARITY The Marist agency supporting a broad range of education, faith formation, Marist ministry and welfare projects across seventeen countries in Asia and the Pacific. It also provides resources for the Marist Schools Australia network with the annual solidarity campaign.

MARIST VOLUNTEERS AUSTRALIA Launched in 2012, Marist Volunteers Australia offers volunteering opportunities to share skills and actively support communities and projects in Asia and the Pacific. working in partnership for change

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AUSTRALIAN MARIST SOLIDARITY

Local children in Pailin use the library to read books and practicing their English.

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AUSTRALIAN MARIST SOLIDARITY OUR WORK

ABN 46 373 535 209

Australian Marist Solidarity (AMS) believes in investing in people – empowering them to take their own path to development and, as such, supports programs that are conducted in partnership with local communities.

We focus on sustainable growth through the enhancement of community development, building a community’s capacity to deliver a better quality education, to develop skills, and promote leadership.

AMS is an approved organisation under the Overseas Aid Gift Deduction Scheme (OAGDS), a full member of ACFID, and a signatory to the ACFID Code of Conduct. All AMS work is compliant with the DFAT and ACFID requirements.

Our in-country local partners develop projects around three key areas:

FORMAL EDUCATION Our support of primary, secondary and tertiary education programs seek to support and expand education systems that exist in communities across Asia and the Pacific.

This work includes support for school programs, school facilities and classroom resources.

NON-FORMAL EDUCATION In communities where there is a lack of educational opportunities and minimal access to formal education, AMS supports learning centres that offer young people tutoring and classes to provide key skills for further education, employment and self sufficiency.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT For young people in Asia and the Pacific, access and effective participation in educational opportunities relies on maintaining good health and wellbeing. AMS supports a range of supplementary projects based around the development of the health and well-being of young people, with a focus on those with disabilities.

Photograph by Conor Ashleigh

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FROM THE CHAIRMAN The past year has seen a rapid growth in Australian Marist Solidarity’s activities throughout thirteen countries of Asia and the Pacific Islands. More children on the margins of life have moved to access education through AMS projects. Traditionally, Marists have ‘planted’ formal schools, and still continue to do so, however, many projects are in countries where this is not possible.

Our project partners have, therefore, been very creative using after hour study centres or community vocational training programmes. Aligned to this has been our extension into community health care, especially in Cambodia, and enhanced the opportunities that young people have to access education.

from the board this year and thank him for his shared experience especially in Timor-Leste.

The AMS team, as part of the broader Marist Solidarity team in Brisbane, continues to give maximum attention to our partners in the field, who we depend on to deliver our outcomes for change with communities.

Our supporters and donors, and people offering AMS probono services, are deeply appreciated for their ongoing generous support. To all who desire a different world that is more just for young people in their access to education and health, we trust you will continue to partner with us in the coming years.

I am indebted once again to my fellow board members for their engagement with the mission of AMS and their support of the AMS team. We farewell Br Mark Paul fms

Mr Peter Sheehan Chairman, AMS Board

Two young people who attend Ponta Leste learn to play traditional drums.

ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

We invest in partnerships with local people who show strong initiative and leadership in the development of new educational opportunities in their own communities. Our structures support these local partners in the project management roles within their projects. In locations where direct communication is sometimes difficult, particularly in the Pacific and in remote areas of Timor-Leste, regional managers have been established. These managers are respected locals who receive ongoing formation or mentoring through AMS in order to assist us in maintaining communication, monitoring progress and evaluating our projects.

With the AMS Board meeting at the AMS national office in Brisbane the AMS Team and the Board are now able to work more closely on enhancing these processes and other developments in organisational efficiency.

AMS BOARD

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 8

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AMS TEAM

REGIONAL MA

>> Currently positioned in: Papua New Guinea, Timor(servicing parts of the Pacific)

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR During 2014, AMS experienced significant expansion across all areas of our mandate. We are grateful for our supporters, new and “rusted on”, who enable us to activate projects with communities’ initiatives in Asia and the Pacific Islands. One standout development has been AMS’s formalizing of our relationship with the Marist District of the Pacific. This extends our mandate as a team to fund search and assist in local project management in Kiribati, Samoa, and Fiji. A workshop in Fiji has prepared our Pacific project managers for this new role.

Our principal country focus in 2014 have been Timor Leste and Cambodia. Here young people, especially those with disabilities, are particularly vulnerable. Our partners Katilosa, a local East-Timorese NGO, and Marist Solidarity Cambodia expanded their outreach due to our

supporters’ commitments to AMS. The AMS board recently approved a new tag line for the organization: “Working in partnership for change”. It captures so much of local communities aspirations for their young people.

The AMS team values the active involvement of our AMS board members, volunteers and supporters at the office, at events and on board sub-committees. In an organization mandated to grow, these contributions are invaluable.

The spirit of solidarity is at the heart of what all Marists hope for in the world, and may this continue to be on the horizon of each of us connected to this newly established agency.

Br Allen Sherry fms Executive Director

Photograph by Conor Ashleigh

PROJECT MANAGERS >> Contact through Regional Desks

ANAGERS

BENEFICIARIES >> Young people and families who live on the margins of developing countries in Asia and the Pacific.

-Leste & Cambodia

PROJECT MANAGERS >> Direct contact with AMS

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OUR PROGRESS

Donavon working with students at St Joseph’s School in Mabiri, Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

Photograph by Conor Ashleigh

BANGLADESH | BOUGAINVILLE | CAMBODIA | FIJI | INDIA | PAKISTAN | THE PHILIPPINES | SOLOMON ISLANDS | SYRIA | THAILAND | TIMOR-LESTE Our supporter network has continued to grow and, in 2014, this has enabled AMS to support projects in ten countries across Asia and the Pacific. As part of the Marist Brothers international presence we were also able to continue to respond to the special needs of Marist projects in Syria, especially considering the current political climate there.

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projects across Asia & the Pacific in 2014

Throughout 2014, we have improved our visibility and have again held AMS gatherings in key locations on the east coast of Australia. This continues to stimulate growth in support of our projects and has enabled the expansion

Photograph by Conor Ashleigh

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of education projects for the poorest and most marginalised young people of Asia and the Pacific.

AMS now supports forty-nine locally initiated projects led by local project managers. We thank our supporters for assisting us in making this happen. What follows is a report on our most significant works throughout 2014.

NOTE: We did not have new major works taking place in the Pacific in 2014 and as such projects in the Pacific do not feature here. For details of the projects go to the AMS website.

A high school student supported through Villa Maria chats with friend before the day starts, Cambodia

CAMBODIA

LAVALLA SCHOOL (FORMAL EDUCATION) BACKGROUND TO THE NEED

>>>

Young Cambodians with a physical disability are a highly vulnerable group, suffering multiple disadvantages.

Stigmatised by society as deserving their misfortune, many live in extreme poverty with limited access to education or basic health care.

Founded by the Marist Brothers of Australia in 1998, the LaValla School is designed specifically to cater for the needs of students excluded from mainstream schooling because of disability. In conjunction with the Cambodian Ministry of Education, LaValla offers an accelerated program, enabling students to complete six years of primary education within three years. Many proceed to high school and further study or training thereby greatly improving their chances of obtaining gainful employment.

RESPONSE

children with disabilities are often refused access to education

PROGRESS

98

children with disabilities attended school at LaValla School

26

children with disabilities graduated from their primary education

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In 2014, under the direction of the Marist Solidarity Cambodia (MSC): >> 98 students were enrolled in the LaValla School’s accelerated primary education program >> prosthetics, crutches, built-up shoes, and other assistive devices were provided as means permitted >> good working relationships established with local hospitals and rehabilitation centres.

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CHALLENGES/KEY LEARNINGS

Improving children’s mobility not only enhances their educational experience, but it promotes their human dignity and capacity for selfdetermination. The students at LaValla obviously benefit greatly from the health and rehabilitation services on offer, however, the cost of employing trained medical staff is significant, as is the purchase of wheelchairs, splints, braces, and other mobility devices. Transporting students to and from hospital for appointments also remains a challenge.

>>>

Assisting students with physical disabilities to solve issues related to mobility, balance and muscle strength can lead to significantly improved educational outcomes, as demonstrated at LaValla.

Weekly health checks and regular treatment from a team of dedicated physiotherapists, in conjunction with the provision of assistive devices such as crutches, splints and walking frames, are giving students greater control of their learning environment, leading to higher academic achievement. In particular, students are showing remarkable improvement from a recently introduced form of rehabilitation: hydrotherapy.

Above left: Students participate in a morning warm-up program. Above right: Students attending after school study. Below: Students in class with one of the teachers at the LaValla School. Photographs

by Conor Ashleigh

This health and rehabilitation program provides the best possible medical support to vulnerable young people so that they can live a life of dignity.

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CAMBODIA

PAILIN RURAL HEALTH OUTREACH (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT) BACKGROUND TO THE NEED

>>>

Although access to healthcare is a basic human right, 5% of the children in Cambodia do not survive beyond the age of five because of a lack of essential medical care. This figure is even higher for those living in rural areas such as Pailin Province, where limited knowledge of health, nutrition and diet, combined with a lack of facilities, roads and transport compound the problem. Villagers with acute cases of dengue fever, malaria, malnutrition, infected wounds and abdominal parasites are frequently unable to obtain medical attention.

RESPONSE

>>>

With the approval of the Cambodian Ministry of Health, a first-aid clinic and sick-bay have been established at the Catholic Church Pastoral Centre in Pailin, alongside the Marist Education Centre. Both centres work together to provide health services and education to the households of the surrounding villages. The clinic in Pailin is open once a week for consultations, medication, basic treatment and referral to hospital if required. It is currently managed by the Marist Brothers and staffed by international volunteers, however, it is hoped that local Cambodians will soon be able to take on this responsibility. Outreach clinics are held in the surrounding villages on three other days of the week.

12 | MARIST SOLIDARITY 2014 ACTIVITIES REPORT

12.3

million people live in poor rural locations such as Pailin

2000 patients given free medical check-ups and medication

2000 local Cambodians received healthcare education

The World Fact Book, CIA, 2013.

PROGRESS

>>>

In 2014, the Marist Brothers, international volunteers and local Cambodians have provided: >> over 2000 free medical consultations for villagers in the Pailin region >> lower rates of death and permanent disability from preventable causes >> workshops on healthcare, basic hygiene and nutrition for more than 2000 people >> support networks with other health providers in the region >> opportunities for outreach health workers to learn from other health providers within the region through observation.

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CHALLENGES/KEY LEARNINGS

In terms of sustainability, one of the key goals of this project is to develop the capacity of local health workers and community educators. In the wet season, it is difficult to reach outlying villages and there is a higher incidence of vector-borne diseases. Given Cambodia’s recent violent history, another significant challenge for the Marist team is to help people understand that they are now able to change their own circumstances.

Above left: Mother and daughter attend the free medical check-up in Pailin. Above right: A young girl smiles after receiving her medical check-up. Below: Local families wait to be seen in a poor village within the Pailin region. Photographs by Conor Ashleigh

INDIA

OPERATION RAINBOW (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT) BACKGROUND TO THE NEED

>>>

In India, an estimated 2.4 million people live with HIV/AIDS (UNICEF, 2013). The HIV virus continues to affect families often leaving their survival in the hands of the oldest child who is frequently the only uninfected family member.

The families and individuals living with HIV/AIDS are often disadvantaged due to the stigmas and lack of education about HIV/AIDS. Operation Rainbow aims to provide these families and individuals with community support to enable them to continue to live with dignity while also providing necessary education to prevent the spread of HIV/ AIDS.

RESPONSE

>>>

Operation Rainbow, based in the city of Tiruchirappalli, known locally as Trichy, is a Marist project run by professional staff and volunteers. Together, in the new facilities, they provide:

2.4

800

million people living with HIV/AIDS in India

in home visits with families living with HIV/AIDS

UNICEF.org, 2013.

PROGRESS

18

women living with HIV/AIDS have completed a certificate in tailoring

>>>

Operation Rainbow continues to provide support for over three hundred individuals across its programs. These include: >> 250 in attendance at the monthly ‘Rainbow Family Gatherings’ >> 800+ in-home family visits in 2014 >> 18 women have completed the six month tailoring course >> 25 young people from nearby villages have participated in evening classes at the centre.

These young people and families are now able to support each other in community so that they do not feel isolated.

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CHALLENGES/KEY LEARNINGS

Operation Rainbow is a program that has grown steadily and at a manageable rate. The number of students now aiming for higher education has increased, which also increases the investment required to enable the program to support these students. This is a positive shift for young people with HIV/AIDS and highlights the positive impact that the project is making.

>> a place and program that enables children and families with HIV/AIDS to gather in support of one another.

These include social outings and the monthly ‘Rainbow Family Gatherings’ >> in-home visits to provide education and support for those with HIV/ AIDS >> free hospital-organised medical camp in Trichy about specific health care and medication

Above left: The recently completed Marcellin Trust Hall being used for the monthly Rainbow Family Gathering. Above right: Local Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Kulandaisamy and Br. Shanthi open the Marcellin Trust Hall. Below: Local women from the program participate in a chalk art competition.

>> counselling and assistance around the death of HIV positive family members >> HIV awareness and education for young people in schools and colleges >> financial education support for children whose families are unable to afford school fees >> a certificate course in tailoring and other capacity building workshops. working in partnership for change

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THAILAND

SAMUT SAKHON STUDY CENTRE (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT) BACKGROUND TO THE NEED

>>>

One of the biggest seafood processing areas in Thailand, the province of Samut Sakhon attracts a large number of unskilled migrant workers from across the South East Asian region, particularly from Burma. As undocumented labourers, they are vulnerable to exploitation, harassment and discrimination, as are their children, who often work alongside them. The lack of legal protection and inability to access basic educational or health services make the process of resettlement difficult and precarious for these marginalised people.

RESPONSE

>>>

In 2011, the Marist Brothers, in association with the local parish, established the Marist Centre for Migrants in Samut Sakhon to respond to the educational needs of Burmese migrant children and youth. Students aged from 5-14 are given a basic education, which includes instruction in the Thai language to facilitate their integration within the host country.

Youth and young adults are offered a two-year computing and information technology program as preparation for skilled employment and given assistance with job placement. A third level of tuition is offered on weekends to young adults with an emphasis on basic literacy, English and computing.

115

Burmese children given education in Thai for integration into school

PROGRESS

58

young Burmese trained in computing and IT skills

2

young Burmese were assisted with job referrals on completion of the program

>>>

With support from the local community, the staff of the Marist Migrant Centre were able to provide the following services to the Burmese community last year: >> 115 Burmese children were given basic education and tuition in Thai to facilitate their integration within the country >> 58 young Burmese were trained in computing and IT skills >> 2 young Burmese were assisted with job referrals on completion of the computing program >> issues of malnutrition and health were addressed for those attending the Marist Education Centre.

Children who left the centre and returned to Myanmar were able to continue their studies in the local Army schools or state schools.

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CHALLENGES/KEY LEARNINGS

It has proved quite a challenge to design and conduct programs to meet the learning needs of students ranging in age from five to adult.

Nevertheless, staff at the Marist Centre for Migrants have made an impressive start on this task. Assisting young people to find work in a country other than their own provides its own particular set of challenges as well.

Above left: Young adults participate in a computing and information technology class at the Marist Migrants Centre. Above right: Young children of migrant workers in Samut Sakhon participate in celebrations at the centre. Bottom: Young adults participating in a weekend computing class.

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TIMOR-LESTE

LEPROSY CLINIC (COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT) BACKGROUND TO THE NEED

>>>

Leprosy remains a significant public health issue in parts of TimorLeste, despite determined efforts to eliminate it. Because of its long incubation period, many cases remain undiagnosed, increasing the risk of infection from close and frequent contact with untreated cases. Early detection, medication, improved hygiene and nutrition are key in arresting the progression of this disfiguring and feared disease. Since 1989 the CIJ (Congregation of the Imitation of Jesus) have operated St Damian’s Clinic in Baucau, providing general healthcare for the population and specific medical attention for those affected by leprosy. The land on which the clinic is built, however, is owned by the local bishop, who now wants to use it for another purpose.

RESPONSE

21

leprosy patients admitted to the clinic for management of their disease

PROGRESS

3000 patients were treated at the St Damian Clinic

1

assistant nurse has been trained to work in the St Damian Clinic

>>>

In 2014, with the support of AMS, the CIJ sisters supported: >> 21 patients with leprosy were treated and 18 of their family members were supported >> between 200-400 people were treated at the clinic each month with more presenting during the wet season than the dry >> 24 out reach clinics and 8 skin-camps were held in the Baucau region >> visited many outlying villages to detect undiagnosed cases of leprosy and educate the community about preventing the spread of leprosy.

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CHALLENGES/KEY LEARNINGS

The CIJ sisters belong to an Indonesian congregation, founded in 1935, with limited access to major funding. As the population of Timor-Leste and centres like Baucau increases, there is a greater risk of infection arising from people living in crowded conditions without sufficient knowledge about hygiene and nutrition. Living simply and working with great dedication, the CIJ sisters provide an invaluable service to the community and are held in high esteem. This continues to be a very successful partnership.

>>>

The sisters have raised funds themselves and secured a matching amount from the government, but they require significant co-financing and reporting support in order to purchase land and construct a new clinic. Their work involves: in-patient and out-patient care; education in early detection of the disease and its prevention; informing people of the services available to them; and advocacy at both the local and national level on behalf of those with leprosy.

They focus especially on encouraging patients to take responsibility for their own care by maintaining a clean environment and healthy lifestyle, taking their medication, and having regular medical check-ups.

Above: CIJ Sister and nurse demonstrating how to take blood and how to carry out testing.

Below: East-Timorese nurse, Anastazia, works at the clinic in Baucau, Timor-Leste. Photographs

by Conor Ashleigh

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TIMOR-LESTE

ICFP (TEACHER TRAINING PROGRAM) (FORMAL EDUCATION) BACKGROUND TO THE NEED

>>>

As the least developed nation in Asia and with one of the highest population growth rates in the world, Timor-Leste faces numerous problems. During the post referendum violence, 95% of its buildings were destroyed and four out of every five teachers left the country. To meet this massive need, untrained teachers with limited academic background were employed to teach, thereby creating a new set of problems for this fragile, new country.

Research has shown that the negative impact of low performing teachers is severe, particularly during the early years of schooling and that young students, placed with poorly qualified teachers for several years in a row, suffer an educational loss that is largely irreversible.

RESPONSE

45% of the population will be below the age of fourteen by 2020

PROGRESS

424

students have graduated with a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) since 2006

16

teachers gained a Masters in Educational Leadership since 2006

>>>

With the support of generous donors, ICFP has made a major contribution to education in Timor-Leste. Since 2006: >> 424 students have graduated with a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) >> 16 teachers have gained a Masters degree in Educational Leadership >> high quality educational resources have been produced in four languages.

Trained in critical thinking, pedagogy and child development, ICFP graduates become leaders in the field of education and also in their local communities.

>>>

CHALLENGES/KEY LEARNINGS

An educational enterprise of this size and scope requires a significant investment of funds each year. One particular challenge is the need to produce culturally appropriate curriculum resources in the child’s mother tongue as well as in Portuguese and Tetum, the official languages of instruction. ICFP has a proven record of quality teaching and is recognised, both internationally and nationally, as a hallmark of excellence in the country.

>>>

To address this issue, the Marist Brothers of Australia responded to an invitation from the bishop of Baucau by opening an educational resources centre and establishing a training college (ICFP) for primary teachers. As one of the few fully functional tertiary institutions in the country, the college quickly gained an enviable reputation for the high quality of programs, obtaining accreditation with the Australian Catholic University in 2003.

Until recently, classes have been held in leased premises in spaces that are ill-equipped for teaching and learning, and so it was amidst great rejoicing that the college opened its first, specially designed, dedicated building in May 2015.

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Above left: Student at ICFP learn the recorder in order to teach their primary students in schools across Timor-Leste. Above right: Active participation in classes at ICFP is enthusiastically embraced.

Below: Students take down notes during a lecture at ICFP. Photographs by Conor Ashleigh

One of the long winding roads of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

Photograph by Conor Ashleigh

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Photographs by Conor Ashleigh

MR PETER SHEEHAN | Chairperson (Appointed April 2013) MR MICHAEL SINCLAIR | Company Secretary (Appointed August 2013) MR BERNARD KENNA | Treasurer (Appointed July 2008) DR DAVID BUCKLEY | (Appointed July 2008) BROTHER JEFFREY CROWE | Provincial Superior, Province of Australia (Appointed 2008) BROTHER JULIAN CASEY | (Appointed July 2008) MRS ANNE-MARIE HUNTER | (Appointed February 2014) MR DAVID L’ESTRANGE | (Appointed July 2013) BROTHER MARK PAUL | (Appointed July 2008) MR MARCUS RILEY | (Appointed 2013) BROTHER ANTHONY ROBINSON | (Appointed 2007) working in partnership for change

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OUR FINANCES

ACFID MEMBERSHIP In 2008, Australian Marist Solidarity became a full member and signatory to the Australian Council for International Development

(ACFID) Code of Conduct. ACFID is the peak council of Australian non-government organisations (NGOs), which aim to promote

conditions of sustainable human development in which people are able to enjoy a full range of human rights and fulfil their needs, free from poverty, and live in dignity.

Australian Marist Solidarity seeks and appreciates your feedback. If you wish to provide feedback or lodge a complaint against the organisation, please contact Br Allen Sherry, Executive Director on (07) 3354 0600 or email: al.sherry@marists.org.au. All feedback is confidential.

THE ACFID CODE OF CONDUCT The ACFID Code of Conduct defines standards of best practice for international development organisations and represents the active commitment of its signatories to conduct their

activities with integrity and accountability. The Code is a voluntary, self-regulatory sector code of good practice that aims to improve international development outcomes and increase

stakeholder trust by enhancing the transparency and accountability of signatory organisations. It was developed in 1997 and comprehensively revised in 2010. Australian Marist Solidarity is committed to full adherence of its requirements.

For more information regarding ACFID and the Code of Conduct and how to make a complaint relating to a breach of the code visit www.acfid.asn.au.

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FINANCIAL OVERVIEW

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2014 (ALL FIGURES IN AUSTRALIAN DOLLARS)

AMS 2014

WHERE THE MONEY COMES FROM...

GRANTS RECEIVED

$

68,165

INTEREST RECEIVED

$

1,963

Marist Province contribution

Income received from financial investments

Other Income 2.2% ($23,204) Grant Received 6.6% ($68,165) Interest Received 0.2% ($1,963)

SOURCE OF INCOME

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME: DESIGNATED FUNDS MAPS

$ 932,702

ADMINISTRATION FEE

$

OTHER INCOME

$ 23,204

Projects managed by MAPS

2% of donations

Restricted funds interest

10,602

TOTAL $ 1,036,636

HOW THE MONEY IS SPENT...

Designated Funds MAPS 90% ($932,702)

Solomon Islands 0.2% ($740) South Africa 14.9% ($46,501)

CAMBODIA $ 72,565 FIJI $ 5,718 INDIA $ 34,986 THE PHILIPPINES $ 8,280 SOUTH AFRICA $ 46,501 SOLOMON ISLANDS $ 740 THAILAND $ 7,996 TIMOR-LESTE $ 120,942 OTHER $ 14,014 TOTAL $

311,742

GRANT TO LAVALLA SCHOOL CAMBODIA

$

55,448

OPERATING EXPENSES

$

68,115

India 11.2% ($34,986)

Timor-Leste 38.8% ($120,942)

PROJECTS EXPENDITURE

Fiji 1.8% ($5,718)

Other 4.5% ($14,014)

Cambodia 23.3% ($72,565)

RATIO OF EXPENSES

$ 601,331

*AMS received a grant of AU$518,166 in 2014 that was allocated to a project in Cambodia, which is to be distributed in January 2015.

Projects Pending 2015 Cambodia 54.3% ($518,166)*

Operating Expenses 7.2% ($68,115) Grant to LaValla School 5.8% ($55,448)

TOTAL $ 435,305 TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(EXPENSE) FOR THE YEAR*

Thailand 2.6% ($7,996)

The Philippines 2.7% ($8,280)

INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS

Administration and Accountability

Administration Fee 1.0% ($10,602)

International Aid Projects 32.7% ($311,742)

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A grandmother kneels outside a packed church with her grandchildren in the Panguna district.

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MARIST ASIA-PACIFIC SOLIDARITY OUR WORK

Marist Asia-Pacific Solidarity (MAPS) supports spiritual and welfare needs of young people as well as Marist ministry work in Asia and the Pacific. These programs are conducted in partnership with local communities who have identified a need for additional support.

MAPS can support a variety of projects that are not considered to be development work. These projects range from formation of lay people in faith communities and Marist Brothers through to community support where welfare is required as a short-term or long-term measure. Projects supported by MAPS do not attract tax deductibility.

What follows is a report of the three major works supported by MAPS during 2014.

Photograph by Conor Ashleigh

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AUTONOMOUS REGION OF BOUGAINVILLE

PAMUNAI CATHOLIC COMMUNITY CHAPEL BACKGROUND TO THE NEED

>>>

The Pamunai Catholic Community is in the Siwai District of South Bougainville, Papua New Guinea. Although it is politically part of Papua New Guinea, Bougainville is geographically and ecologically part of the Solomon Islands Archipelago. From 1988 to 1998 the island of Bougainville was embroiled in a ten year civil war. It is estimated up to 20,000 Bougainvilleans were killed.

Above: The Pamunai Catholic Community, Siwai District of South Bougainville, Papua New Guinea, celebrate the opening liturgy in their new chapel.

During the civil war, Bougainville was stripped of its resources. All community wealth disappeared as residents fled their homes for safety in bush camps and care centres. Since then, communities have been rebuilding in an attempt to return to ‘normal’ life. As a result of the civil, war most of the young people have not had the opportunity to continue their education and unemployment is high. Like many other communities, the Pamunai community rely heavily on subsistence farming to sustain their livelihoods and consequently personal and family income is limited.

Prior to the civil war, the Pamunai community had a chapel that was built using local materials. It was used for prayer and organised events. Due to widespread destruction during the civil war, the 1,000 person strong Catholic community had nowhere to gather and pray.

RESPONSE

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In 2013, the Pamunai Catholic Community approached the Marist Brothers in Bougainville for assistance to rebuild their Chapel.

The local community gathered to discuss their need for the chapel and presented a design that they agreed upon. When the community approached MAPS, it was clear that they were not looking for a ‘hand-out’ or someone to do it for them. MAPS agreed to enter into a co-financing arrangement to assist with the purchase of some equipment and materials.

The Pamunai community cut and shaped their own timber using local labour freely offered by skilled tradesman in the area. They even made financial contributions to purchase of some of the materials. This project was a true community effort and is a great model for international aid projects.

The chapel, now complete and officially opened, will serve as a gathering place for community members. The Pamunai Catholic Community will gather together for prayer and events that will result in a stronger, healthier community.

The Diocese of Bougainville believes that “having a Chapel or house of prayer in local communities is a positive sign or an expression of a healthy Christian society”. This is especially important as the country rebuilds after decades of struggle.

Right top & middle: Main entrance and side view of the new Pamunai Catholic Community Chapel nearing completion. Right bottom: The completed entrance to the chapel dressed and ready for the opening liturgy.

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TIMOR-LESTE

PONTA LESTE CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTRE (CYC) BACKGROUND TO THE NEED

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Ponta Leste Children and Youth Centre is based in Old Town Baucau, Timor-Leste. During the 1999 post referendum violence, 95% of the buildings and infrastructure were destroyed, leaving only 5% of the schools standing. With over 40% of the country’s population below the age of fifteen the current school system faces difficult challenges.

above: Elvin Oliveira stands with a group of young people, who participate in the Ponta Leste programs, outside the Ponta Leste CYC.

In order to support the large number of Timorese young people with education opportunities, many schools offer two school sessions each day. Students attend either the morning or afternoon session. This structure, combined with the lack of resources, facilities and skilled teachers, makes it very difficult for students to excel in their learning.

The Ponta Leste Children and Youth Centre was established in order to support the children and young people of Old Town Baucau. It provides a range of supplementary educational opportunities ranging from language tutoring to computer skills and organised sports activities. The program currently supports over 300 young people each year.

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A SUCCESS STORY

Ponta Leste has supported thousands of young people since it was established in 2006. The program prides itself on enabling young people to strive to reach their full potential. Elvin Oliveira is one young man who has gone from strength to strength since becoming involved in the programs at Ponta Leste.

Elvin Oliveira is from a poor family in a small remote village located at the base of Mt Matebian. He moved to Baucau to live with his extended family to pursue his secondary school studies.

In his spare time, Elvin decided to learn English at the Ponta Leste Children and Youth Centre and saw this as a key to his future development. He enjoyed the experience and gained so much confidence in learning English that he volunteered to teach younger children English at Ponta Leste. Elvin also volunteered his time to assist with Timor-Leste Red Cross Youth programs.

Elvin is currently studying for a degree in Community Development at the National University in Dili. He hopes to gain a scholarship to further his study in Australia or New Zealand.

Elvin is just one example of the many young people who have benefited from the Ponta Leste program. MAPS continues to support this program in order to see many other young people reach their potential so that they may contribute to the development of this young nation as Elvin hopes to.

Right top: Young Timorese take part in an English class at Ponta Leste CYC. Right middle: Past student of Ponta Leste, Elvin Oliveira, teaches at the centre. Right bottom: Elvin, second from left, stands with three of the centre volunteer staff outside of Ponta Leste CYC.

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SRI LANKA

FOOD FOR EDUCATION MARCELLIN NIWASA BACKGROUND TO THE NEED

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Sri Lanka is a developing nation where many children live in poverty.

As a result, many young people have no choice but to eat small amounts of food lacking in nutrition, or to eat nothing at all.

Even though the Marist Brothers are providing valuable free education opportunities, constant hunger is hampering their efforts to enable their students to reach their full potential.

Above: Some students from the school where the ‘Food for Education’ program is run. Students supported by this program are not pictured for privacy reasons.

The immediate and underlying causes of childhood malnutrition in Sri Lanka range from disease, inadequate dietary intake to knowledge and cultural factors. These influence the utilisation of health services and available food.

Poverty in its many manifestations affects nearly 23 percent of households in Sri Lanka and is closely intertwined with household food security. However, while poverty is an important basic determinant of child malnutrition, it does not solely explain the high rates of its occurrence in Sri Lanka. Other major determinants of malnutrition in the country include inappropriate feeding practices, micronutrient deficiencies, and disease.

Seeing this, Brother Shanthi felt the need to do something, and, in 2009, he began the project ‘Food for Education’, which was supported by a German organisation. Due to the effect of the Global Financial Crisis on Europe, funding for the project was suspended, leaving students hungry once again.

RESPONSE

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The project provided a packet of lunch to thirty school going students who couldn’t afford a wholesome meal. These students were able to continue their education and participate in school activities without having to suffer from hunger.

The students supported include those attending school who are at risk of health issues related to malnourishment and young people who are unable to fulfil their potential in the classroom due to hunger.

Right top: Students participate in the tutoring classes provided by the Marist Brothers. Right middle: Local children supported by the Marist Brothers through a range of Marist initiatives. Right bottom: Australian Marist volunteer stands with a group of young men from the area.

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($495,216)

Undesignated Donations 2.7% ($27,557)

FINANCIAL OVERVIEW

FOR THEMarist YEARProvince ENDEDof31 DECEMBER 2014 AustraliaIN Grant 5% (ALL FIGURES AUSTRALIAN DOLLARS) ($50,643)

Interest Received 6.3% ($63,847)

MAPS 2014 Designated Donations 48.9%

SOURCE ($495,216) Undesignated Donations 2.7% ($27,557) OF Marist Province of INCOME

Undesignated Donations 2.7% ($27,557)

Australia Grant 5% ($50,643)

Marist Province of Australia Grant 5% ($50,643) Marist Schools Australia Donations 37.1% Interest Received 6.3% ($375,209) ($63,847)

Interest Received 6.3% ($63,847)

Cambodia 20.5% Marist Schools Australia ($205,903) Donations 37.1% ($375,209)

Cambodia 20.5% ($205,903)

Cambodia PROJECTSBougainville 4.5% 20.5% ($205,903) ($46,016) EXPENDITURE South Africa 4.5% ($45,088)

Other 0.2% ($1,900) Vietnam 1.6% ($16,190) Thailand 1.6% ($16,000) Sri Lanka 1.8%

Administration Costs 10.2% ($114,761) Fundraising Costs 0.8% ($9,032) International Aid Projects 89% ($1,005,989)

PROJECTS EXPENDITURE

Timor-Leste 38.6% ($387,970)

PROJECTS ($18,122) Fiji 2.1% India 11.5%EXPENDITURE Solomon Islands 8.0% ($21,599)

($18,122) ($116,143) Solomon Islands 8.0% ($80,942) Samoa 0.2% ($1,909) The Philippines 4.3% ($42,825) Administration Costs 10.2% Pakistan 0.6% ($5,684) ($114,761) Fundraising Costs 0.8% India 11.5% ($9,032) ($116,143)

International Aid

SOURCE OF INCOME

SOURCE OF INCOME

Bougainville Marist Schools Australia4.5% Donations ($46,016) 37.1% South Africa($375,209) 4.5% ($45,088)

Other 0.2% ($1,900) Vietnam 1.6% ($16,190) Thailand 1.6% ($16,000) Sri Lanka 1.8% Bougainville 4.5% ($18,122) ($46,016) Solomon Islands 8.0% South Africa 4.5% ($80,942) ($45,088) Samoa 0.2% Other 0.2% ($1,909) ($1,900) The Philippines 4.3% Vietnam 1.6% ($42,825) ($16,190)Pakistan 0.6% Thailand 1.6% ($16,000) Sri Lanka 1.8% ($5,684)

Designated Donations 48.9% ($495,216)

($80,942) Samoa 0.2% ($1,909) The Philippines 4.3% ($42,825) Pakistan 0.6% ($5,684) Timor-Leste 38.6% India 11.5% ($387,970) ($116,143) Fiji 2.1% ($21,599)

Timor-Leste 38.6% ($387,970)

Fiji 2.1% ($21,599)

Administration Costs 10.2% ($114,761) Fundraising Costs 0.8% ($9,032)

RATIO OF EXPENSES

RATIO International Aid OF Projects 89% EXPENSES ($1,005,989)

RATIO OF working in partnership for change EXPENSES

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Australian Marist volunteers Madeline Forde and Liam Highmore sit with children at Lavalla school, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

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MARIST VOLUNTEERS AUSTRALIA OUR WORK

Marist Volunteers Australia (MVA) is the volunteer agency of the Marist Province Australia. Established in 2012, MVA offers volunteering opportunities to share skills and actively support communities and projects in Asia and the Pacific Islands. MVA also supports school immersions to Marist works in Asia and the Pacific Islands.

MVA volunteers aim to support the projects of the Marist Brothers across Asia and the Pacific by building up community environments and enabling educational opportunities to be more accessible and equitable for all.

In 2014, MVA commissioned 27 volunteers, aged 18 to 67, to projects aboard in nine locations across the region.

What follows is a report of the volunteering work supported through MVA in 2014.

Photograph by Conor Ashleigh

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Volunteering

Australian volunteer, Maddy, working with a student during evening study at the LaValla School, Cambodia.

CAMBODIA LAVALLA SCHOOL TAKHMAO

8 VOLUNTEERS 524 DAYS VOLUNTEERING

LaValla School is the only school in Cambodia that offers a full primary education to those with a disability. Eight MVA volunteers spent time at LaValla School in 2014 and supported the children with one-on-one tutoring, small homework classes, and simply being a presence in the young peoples’ lives.

A group of boys making use of the library facilities at the Marist Education Centre in Pailin, Cambodia.

CAMBODIA

MARIST EDUCATION CENTRE, PAILIN

3 VOLUNTEERS 146 DAYS VOLUNTEERING

Volunteers assisted the Brothers and local staff in providing after school classes for 200 children every day in this rural corner of Cambodia.

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Australian volunteers, Andrea and Kurt, stand with the staff of Vanga Point in the Solomon Islands.

SOLOMON ISLANDS VANGA POINT

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VOLUNTEERS DAYS VOLUNTEERING

A young family immersed themselves and their children in Solomon Island life while they assisted the local primary school in gap areas.

Australian volunteer, Kim, working with the young children of the Marist Centre for Migrants.

THAILAND

MARIST CENTRE FOR MIGRANTS, SAMUT 3 SAKHON 180

VOLUNTEERS DAYS VOLUNTEERING

The aim of the Marist Centre is to provide the right of education to Burmese migrant children, especially those who are undocumented and denied access to the Thai education system. Volunteers provided English and computer tutoring seven days a week to children, adolescents and adults, as they sought to improve their skills set and improve their way of life.

TIMORLESTE

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BAUCAU

VOLUNTEERS DAYS VOLUNTEERING

Two young people volunteered in several small, locallyrun education initiatives in the town of Baucau.

Australian volunteer, Peter (first on left), stands with the young men and women outside the New Horizons facilities.

VIETNAM

NEW HORIZONS 5 QUOC OAI

VOLUNTEERS 376 DAYS VOLUNTEERING

New Horizons aims to equip young Vietnamese with English language skills, IT, and retail skills in order to improve their employment prospects. Five volunteers supported Br Geoff Kelly in providing a quality English curriculum for these young people.

LATIN AMERICA COLOMBIA

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VOLUNTEER DAYS VOLUNTEERING

Specially arranged placements were undertaken by one volunteers who taught English in formal and non-formal settings.

Immersions ASIA & THE PACIFIC ISLANDS Australian volunteer, Joe (middle), standing outside the United Nations building in Geneva, Switzerland.

SWITZERLAND

FOUNDATION FOR MARIST SOLIDARITY 2 INTERNATIONAL, GENEVA

VOLUNTEERS 132 DAYS VOLUNTEERING

Two university students completed an internship at FMSI Geneva – the human rights and advocacy arm of the Marist Brothers. These volunteers got the unique opportunity to visit the UN as a sanctioned delegate and participate in sessions that were taking place.

10 COUNTRIES 28 SCHOOLS 40 IMMERSIONS 400 STUDENTS & STAFF

Following on from an immersion workshop in 2013, MVA continues to support schools as they plan immersions to Marist projects across Asia and the Pacific. With over 400 students and teachers participating in an immersion in 2014, the positive impact on the local community and the school are immeasurable and invaluable. Marist Solidarity has seen the links strengthen between overseas Marist projects and individuals, schools and communities as a result of an intensive immersion experience.

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ON THE COVER...

TIMOR-LESTE, 2013 A student of the Teacher Training College (ICFP) assisting a young girl with her schoolwork in Baucau, Timor-Leste.

Photo by Conor Ashleigh, Newcastle, NSW w w w. c o n o r a s h l e i g h . c o m

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Thank you to all our of our supporters for your generous contributions toward the young people across Asia and the Pacific!

To support the projects contained in this report and to find out more visit us online: www.australianmaristsolidarity.net.au

POSTAL ADDRESS Marist Solidarity PO Box 273 Ashgrove West QLD 4060 AUSTRALIA

OFFICE PHONE

(+617) 3354 0600

EMAIL

msol@marists.org.au

14AUGUST2015