This short video offers a glimpse into the work of Child Aid Papua. It showcases our school, our children, and the vision that drives us every day: to empower children in Raja Ampat with a bright future through education, life skills, and the protection of their unique marine environment. These children are the future of Raja Ampat—and we are grateful to be part of their journey.
‘WHAT WE LEARN' is a compelling eight-part documentary series that shines light on the struggles of disadvantaged children worldwide. The series emphasises the pivotal role education plays in breaking the cycle of poverty and shaping children’s futures. From an isolated Himalayan monastery, to the world’s largest refugee camp, our stories unveil the challenges, determination and hope of children living in extraordinary circumstances.
Up to twice a year, our students organize a Conservation Week for students from other schools. They share their knowledge and experience in nature and marine conservation—hands-on, interactive, and driven by their own initiative. Together, they learn, experience, and take responsibility for the unique nature of Raja Ampat.
The "Ocean Warrior" project was developed by our school and has been successfully implemented in several villages in Raja Ampat. Through the "Ocean Warrior" program, children and teenagers in Raja Ampat learn about the devastating effects of plastic waste on their unique environment – and, most importantly, how they can take active steps to combat it. Using a specially designed textbook and hands-on activities like island clean-ups, the children gain more than just knowledge; they also collect waste.
In just one generation, the story of our student Mesly shows how education and environmental protection can drive change together. Mesly, who gained her knowledge at the Child Aid Papua school, convinced her father—a former shark hunter—that there are more sustainable ways to make a living today.
Jonas Müller lives where others go on vacation. The former economist from Glarus has built a new home for himself in the heart of the Indonesian diving paradise, Raja Ampat. In a village largely untouched by tourism, the 28-year-old teaches local children about nature conservation and sustainable development. During adventurous spearfishing trips, they put what they have learned into practice while having plenty of fun.
Our modern school and boarding facilities provide children and young people from the remote islands of Raja Ampat with a safe and supportive place to learn, live and grow. Spacious classrooms, comfortable dormitories, a school clinic and modern sanitation facilities create an environment where our students can thrive. By providing access to high-quality education, we empower young people from remote communities to develop their potential and build brighter futures.
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Our environmental projects combine learning with hands-on experience. Our students spend time immersed in the unique natural environment of Raja Ampat, exploring its fascinating underwater world and surrounding ecosystems first-hand. These experiences help them develop a deeper understanding of nature, build a personal connection with their environment, and learn to take responsibility for protecting it. In this way, they grow into ambassadors for the sustainable protection of one of the world’s most precious natural environments.
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Close cooperation with government institutions and the relevant education authorities is an important part of our work. Regular dialogue provides opportunities to exchange experiences, coordinate developments, and explore shared perspectives on quality education. This constructive collaboration supports the continuous development of educational opportunities and contributes to creating positive and sustainable prospects for children and young people in Papua.
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The achievements of our students show what quality education can make possible. From studying at leading universities in Indonesia and abroad to receiving scholarships, regional awards and sporting achievements, our students continue to show their potential. With a 100% graduation rate and more than 80% of our graduates receiving scholarships to leading universities in Indonesia, we help young people build a strong foundation for their future and create new opportunities in life.
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In Grade 11, our students gain valuable work experience through a one-year internship. Together with selected partners, they work in different professional fields and put what they have learned at school into practice. Depending on their interests, students complete internships in hospitality, administration, or marine conservation. Some train to become internationally certified professional dive guides, while others work alongside marine biologists as part of the ReShark programme, supporting the protection and recovery of endangered shark species. These experiences help our students develop practical skills, independence, responsibility, and confidence — preparing them for their future studies and careers.
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The 50-minute documentary Nature is My Teacher tells the inspiring story of Child Aid Papua and the young people whose lives are being transformed through education. The film was created by internationally renowned photographer and documentary filmmaker Simon Lister, known for his powerful stories about people, culture and nature around the world. Through his unique visual storytelling, the film shows how learning goes far beyond the classroom and how education, nature and community are closely connected. Nature is My Teacher follows our students as they build confidence, take responsibility and discover new opportunities for their future. It shows how quality education can not only change the lives of individual young people, but also have a lasting impact on their communities. It is a story of hope, potential and the belief that education is a key to a more sustainable future.
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