I have recently returned from a visit to Kiribati (pronounced Kir-i-bas) to better understand the social justice programs the Sisters of the Good Samaritan have been undertaking for over 30 years in support of vulnerable women and children in the country.

The Sisters have two communities in Kiribati located in Abaokoro village, North Tarawa and Temaiku, South Tarawa. This tropical, low-lying island nation, just over three hours by air from Nadi, Fiji, has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional practices like outdoor meeting houses (maneaba) being used for community gatherings.

While Kiribati is surrounded by aqua waters and coral sand, its natural beauty can hide a harsh reality. Kiribati is one of the poorest nations in the Pacific, with approximately 30% of its population living on less than $3.20 per day (World Bank 2021).

Even more concerning, nearly 20% of the population is classified as multidimensionally poor, with an additional 30% vulnerable to multidimensional poverty (UNDP 2023).

Multidimensional poverty, as defined by the United Nations Development Programme, means more than just financial hardship, it encompasses critical shortages in education, healthcare, housing and basic services (UNDP 2022).

Kiribati faces unique challenges. The small population, limited private sector and scarce employment opportunities make economic growth difficult. Climate change further exacerbates these hardships, with rising tides, drought and saltwater intrusion threatening the supply of fresh food and drinking water.

One of the important pathways to a better future for the people of Kiribati is education. Providing quality learning opportunities equips children and communities with the tools they need to break the cycle of poverty and build a more resilient, prosperous future.

That’s why the Good Sams Foundation has made education the cornerstone of its work in Kiribati. We know that illiteracy and early school dropout rates are directly linked to unemployment, poor health outcomes and intergenerational poverty.

This year, our focus in Kiribati is on raising funds and awareness for two transformative initiatives:

1. Renovation, fit-out and furnishings for a new centre for the community in Temaiku, South Tarawa

The Sisters of the Good Samaritan are renovating an existing structure to create a vital hub for vulnerable community groups. With Temaiku’s population rapidly growing, this centre will be a welcoming gathering space offering hospitality and the opportunity to share ideas and meet new people.

2. Building repairs, playground equipment and learning aids for our pre-school in Abaokoro village, North Tarawa

It is widely accepted that early childhood education sets children up for lifelong success. However, access to early education remains limited in Kiribati, especially on the remote islands.  In 2009, the Sisters of the Good Samaritan opened a preschool in Abaokoro village, North Tarawa, for children between three to five years of age.

To alleviate financial burdens, attendance costs at the Abaokoro Kindergarten are free or heavily subsidised.  Many families provide ‘in-kind’ services, volunteering at the school in exchange for their children’s education. This system not only ensures accessibility but also fosters dignity and a strong sense of community.

The Sisters of the Good Samaritan Kinder School in Abaokoro is more than just a place of learning—it is a foundation for future success. Through interactive play, creative arts and essential lessons on health, hygiene and environmental care, these small children gain the skills they need to continue their studies and improve their resilience.

One of the highlights of my time with the pre-school students was a ‘Twinkle, twinkle little star’ performance in the school’s maneaba. I hope it brings you a smile!

Please join our Good Sams Foundation Community

Kiribati’s children and communities deserve a future filled with opportunity and hope. If you’d like to join with the Good Sams Foundation community in making a difference to families living in Kiribati, please donate here. To get in touch, please don’t hesitate to email me: smears@goodsamsfoundation.org.au

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