Papua New Guinea University of Technology Annual Report 2023

Vice Chancellor’s Overview

PNGUoT has achieved significant milestones in 2023, marking another successful year. The governance of the University has been further consolidated in compliance with the Higher Education General Purpose Act 2014. The Council, now reduced from 26 to 13 members, includes specific appointments to cover a wide range of professional expertise, such as engineering, accountancy, HR, law, and IT, to better serve the strategies of PNGUoT. The only ex-officio in the Council is the Vice Chancellor. We proudly announce that PNGUoT has a new Chancellor, Mr. Sam Koim, a prominent lawyer and a statesman. The new Council has continued to focus on the outcomes of the Strategic Plan 2020 – 2024, ensuring progress in strengthening the pillars of the University for future growth.

The Executive Management focused on improving teaching quality and research output relevant to the PNG industry, government, and communities. Progress has been steady regarding the accreditation of the engineering programs. Targets in securing equipment and facilities upgrades were achieved. Interactive teaching engagement between students and staff has also reached the desired outcomes. Improvements in practical training for students have progressed well, ensuring that students have been prepared well for the industry. The culture in research has advanced further with the increased intake of postgraduate students. PNGUoT has achieved a 4.5% increase in student intake, mainly through online delivery. PNGUoT continues to build its reputation as a knowledge hub of science and technology for PNG and the region.

The Administration of PNGUoT has also gained positive traction, ensuring performance in the administrative and academic functions of the University. The strategic objective to ensure administrative effectiveness and performance has led to the outsourcing of some administrative functions that are now performing better. The campus is looking cleaner as a result. The dormitories are maintained well. Some buildings have been given a facelift. Added street lighting improved safety levels on campus, as well as security in general. Visitors from town frequently visit the campus for peace, tranquility, and physical exercise.

The University continues to strengthen its financial position annually. In 2023, PNGUoT achieved a 4.5% growth rate, and the Executive Management plans to increase growth in the coming years through online and accredited programs. This demonstrates the organic growth of PNGUoT’s core business through the refinement of its curriculum. This product is marketable nationally and internationally, hence the solid financial position. Effectively applying cost reduction measures has seen surplus budget diverted for business development. Re-evaluation of PNGUoT properties reflects a fair value in the financial statement with a positive net worth of K340.20 million. We are hopeful and optimistic about the future financial growth of PNGUoT, and we believe that our stakeholders can share in this optimism. PNGUoT Council and Executive Management look forward to another year of growth and societal impact in 2024.

Professor Ora Renagi OL

Vice Chancellor