Dr Genevieve Nelson – Kokoda, Training Teachers and Engaging with Business

Welcome to Episode 1 of Good Will Hunters, with Dr. Genevieve Nelson. Today, we discuss the organisation Gen leads, the Kokoda Track Foundation, and the incredible impact the organisation has had on PNG. We talk state failure, achieving development goals, walking the Kokoda Track, training teachers in the most remote parts of the country, and why collaboration with the private sector can be a game-changer for civil society, plus loads more!

1:40 – PNG is not a failed state
2:50 – PNG and the MDGs/SDGs
6:00 – PNG’s natural resources and land ownership
7:08 – Australia’s legacy of camaraderie in PNG
10:07 – The evolution of KTF in PNG
12:20 – Poverty as a lack of basic services
14:52 – Development in the Kokoda Track catchment
18:00 – Challenges of collaboration in PNG
19:10 – Potential of tourism for development in PNG
21:40 – The life-changing experience of walking the Kokoda Track
22:53 – KTFs Archer Leadership Program
27:12 – Corporate partnerships – vital to success
28:38 – KTF’s Teach for Tomorrow Program – one of my favourite parts!
35:12 – Australia-PNG opportunities for private and civil collaboration
37:56 – KTF and Solar Buddy tackling energy poverty
40:32 – Non-traditional sources of aid
42:48 – The importance of Australian Aid to PNG
45:10 – Private sector has a ‘third seat’ on the aid table

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