We are pleased to announce that, effective 13th September 2024, Pestalozzi International Foundation (PIF) will merge with Pestalozzi World Children’s Trust (PW). PIF's assets will transfer to PW and the newly unified organisation will support PW’s existing programmes operating under the name Pestalozzi International.
PIF has resolved that in-country education programmes provide the greatest potential for impactful contributions to the economic and social development of the Global South. By combining our rich histories, shared values and commitment to providing world-class education we are stronger together.
Inspired by the 18th century Swiss Educator Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi's "Head, Heart, and Hands" philosophy, we offer child-centred education suited to the needs of disadvantaged children in the Global South, supporting economic growth and social mobility.
The merger represents a strategic decision to amplify our collective impact. By unifying our resources and expertise, Pestalozzi International will be better positioned to provide holistic education and essential vocational skills to the brightest children from the most disadvantaged backgrounds globally.
Pestalozzi International will be the only international NGO in the World implementing a modern interpretation of Pestalozzian principles, rooted in local cultures and relevant to their societies.
This merger is not just a change in name; it is a bold step towards a future where we can do more, reach more, and change more lives.
The merger brings four important strategic advantages:
Unified Resources: By consolidating our resources, we can operate more efficiently and effectively, ensuring that more funds go directly to the children and communities we serve.
Enhanced Impact: The merger will allow us to expand our programmes, reaching more children in more regions, particularly where the socio-economic need is most acute.
Continued Excellence: We will continue to provide high-quality education through our established programmes, such as the Future Leaders Programme and SkillsHub, ensuring that our students receive the support they need to thrive.
Collective strength of our alumni. Our alumni are the best custodians of Pestalozzian values and ethos. Blending the lived experience of PIF and PW alumni will provide new opportunities for alumni to take up positions of leadership to define the future direction of Pestalozzi International in serving its mission.
Pestalozzi International will honour and preserve the legacy of both PW and PIF:
PIF, established in 1957, operated the renowned Pestalozzi Children’s / International Village in Sedlescombe, Sussex until 2019. This offered scholarships in the UK to children from the Global South, and subsequently at United World Colleges in Europe and the UK.
Since 1995, PW has supported over 37,000 children in Zambia, Nepal, and India, with a particular focus on refugee communities and gender equality.
The merger is underpinned by a rich history of collaboration and cooperation as PIF alumni have been instrumental in shaping PW’s initiatives across Asia, exemplifying the altruistic spirit that defines children raised in the Pestalozzian ethos.
Pestalozzi International is committed to maintaining transparency and open communication with all stakeholders throughout this transition. We understand the importance of addressing the views of our donors, alumni, staff, and the broader community.
Pestalozzi International can be found at www.pestalozzi.international. During the period of transition, the websites of PIF and PW will redirect to the new domain. We will continue to provide regular updates and encourage our supporters to reach out with any questions or feedback. Your trust and support are invaluable as we embark on this exciting new chapter.
Join us in supporting Pestalozzi International as we continue to empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers. Together, we can ensure that every child, regardless of their background, can reach their full potential.
Invest in a Child's Future Today.
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