Annex 1 - the European External Action Service - Europa

St Johns Blind Services
Contact Name:
Telephone Number:
Email:
1. NGO historical aspects
Founded in 1979 by a blind person called Paul Sangio. He attended Blind School in Sydney and upon
return established the organisation. It’s main objective is to provide services to the blind peoples of
PNG.
2. Organizational aspects
Wishes to cover nationally but currently operates in NCD and Eastern Highlands provinces only. The
organization employers 7 in total with 4 paid and 3 volunteers. 4 teachers have special needs
qualifications, 1 technician to repair Braille machine and another primary eye care coordinator.
3. Networking and institutional relations
Locally the organization is affiliated to the National Board for Disabled Persons, Education
Department, Health Department, and Community Development. Internationally, it is affiliated with
World Blind Union, Vision Australia, Association of the Blind.
4. Juridical aspects
Established by an Act of National Parliament in 1975. This was the St Johns Ambulance Act. St Johns
Blind Services come under this Act. It is exempted from IPA NGO Association registration. There is a
Board and the Board is reelected every three years.
5. Financial aspects
The Association’s accounts are audited annually. Source of funding comes from Department of
Education, Health Department (via the National Board for Disabled Persons), Department of
Community Development. There is no funding from international donors.
6. Activities and sectors
Main sectors: Provides services to the blind in PNG.
Main activities: Rehabilitation program, education program, primary eye care (prevention blindness).
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