After 47 years in Palau the U.S. Peace Corps will end its presence in August of 2014. Because of Palau ranking at 53 under the countries with High Human Development, website like this the Peace Corps program has determined that Palau has graduated from a high need of Peace Corps services.
Palaus President Remengesau was informed of the programs end during a meeting with Peace Corps Country Director, Mr. Renwick Nelson, approved Ms. Misia Orrukem of the Palau Peace Corps office and Mr. Tom Daley, the Charge’ de Affairs for the US Embassy. Mr. Nelson stated “This is a mark of success in the abilities of two people to work together to achieve something good. Based on assessments and recommendations, we feel that Palau is now ready to be graduated from the program.” Palau will be the fourth country to graduate from the program. The other three countries that have graduated are Romania, Bulgaria and Antigua. There are currently four Peace Corps volunteers in Palau working in Airai, Bethania, Emmaus, and Angaur. These volunteers will continue their terms which will end in August 2014. Palau also has the opportunity to request “Response Volunteers” to assist in the transition of the end of the program. The response volunteers can be requested to contribute to specific areas of need for a period from three to twelve months. The request for such assistance must be made before August 2014.
President Remengesau expressed his gratitude to the hundreds of volunteers and the many years of service afforded by the Peace Corps Program. He commented on the number of volunteers who extended their stay after their service was completed and even several who ended up living permanently in Palau. The President praised the significant contribution of Peace Corps volunteers to education in Palau and even to his own English language education.
