Overview:
The Republic of Palau has welcomed nine new Peace Corps Volunteers, marking the program’s return after more than eight years. The Volunteers will undergo 10 weeks of training in Palauan language, culture, and teaching methods before serving two-year assignments in schools and communities across the country, supporting early grade English literacy and working alongside local educators.
The return signals renewed cooperation between Palau and the United States, with a focus on education, cultural exchange, and community development.
Koror, Palau (May 2, 2026)— Today, the Republic of Palau welcomes the arrival of nine Peace Corps Volunteers, marking the return of the Peace Corps after more than eight years since Volunteers last served in the country.
Upon arrival, Volunteers will participate in an intensive 10-week Pre-Service Training focused on Palauan language and culture, community integration, and effective strategies for supporting English literacy in elementary schools. Following training, Volunteers will be placed in schools and communities across the country, where they will serve for two years alongside Palauan educators and community members to support early grade literacy.
The return of Peace Corps Volunteers reflects an ongoing commitment between the United States and Palau to strengthening education, cultivating cross-cultural exchange, and supporting Palau’s national development priorities. Volunteers will work closely with schools and Palauan educators to support classroom instruction and strengthen teacher capacity while learning from the rich cultural traditions and knowledge of Palauan communities.
“This is great for the Peace Corps, for Palau, and the children who will benefit from these Volunteers’ skills for years to come,” said Joel Ehrendreich, U.S. Ambassador to Palau. A Returned Peace Corps Volunteer himself, Ambassador Ehrendreich has been a strong advocate for the return of Peace Corps Volunteers to Palau. “This is great for US-Palau relations, and for all of us who strive for peace and international friendship.”
“This is a meaningful moment for both Palau and the Peace Corps,” said Ms. Marguerite Roy, Country Director of Peace Corps Philippines and Palau. “We are honored to return at the invitation of the Government of Palau and to continue building relationships grounded in mutual respect, learning, and service.”
Peace Corps Volunteers will work side-by-side with local teachers, supporting classroom instruction, after-school programs, and community-based initiatives. Their work builds on decades of partnership, with more than 398 Volunteers having previously served in Palau since the program’s establishment in 1966.