Papua New Guinea University of Technology Annual Report 2025

Vice Chancellor’s Foreword

The year 2025 has been another significant and productive year for the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT). The academic year commenced with exciting news that all five engineering programs were granted full accreditation by Engineers Australia under the Washington Accord. This important recognition was officially announced on 18 December 2024. The achievement attracted strong praise and support from government and industry stakeholders. In particular, the University acknowledges the valuable support provided by Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited and ExxonMobil during the accreditation process.

To mark this milestone, PNGUoT hosted a celebration on 1 July 2025. The occasion was attended by distinguished guests from overseas, representatives from government, and leaders from industry who joined the University community in celebrating this achievement. The accreditation affirms the quality of engineering education delivered at PNGUoT and strengthens the international standing of our graduates. Following this celebration, the University hosted the Pacific Islands Universities Research Network Conference. Researchers from universities across the Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand gathered at PNGUoT to present research addressing issues affecting Pacific Island societies and economies. The conference provided an important opportunity for our academics to engage with colleagues across the region, strengthen research partnerships, and initiate new collaborative initiatives. These engagements continue to expand the research capacity and international visibility of PNGUoT.

These developments were complemented by the establishment of the Office of Strategic Internationalization (OSI). The Office was endorsed by the University Council in November 2024 to strengthen collaboration with international partner institutions and advance the University’s global engagement agenda. The Director of OSI position is generously supported by Ok Tedi Mining Limited, Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited, and PNG DataCo Limited.

PNGUoT continues to demonstrate growth in expanding higher education access for young people and working professionals. Online enrolment increased from 500 students in 2024 to 800 students in 2025. Total student enrolment has now reached approximately 4,000 students, including about 250 postgraduate students, with around 30 currently pursuing doctoral studies. On campus, students have remained focused on their studies, supported by improved security and learning resources.

Our Estate and Services Division continues to work diligently to maintain and upgrade the University’s ageing infrastructure. Several buildings have undergone refurbishment, improving the campus environment and creating more conducive living and learning spaces for staff and students. A major highlight was the completion of the University’s new student dining hall, which was officially opened in October 2025 by the Chancellor of PNGUoT, Sam Koim.

Another important milestone was the launch of the PNGUoT Strategic Plan 2025–2029 in February 2025. The University’s vision is to become the knowledge and technology hub of the Pacific region, delivering high-quality STEM education and conducting research that provides innovative solutions to real-world socio-economic challenges facing our region.

Academic Excellence and Research Excellence form the two primary pillars of the Strategic Plan. The University continues to invest in these areas to ensure that our graduates are equipped with high-quality qualifications and the skills required to contribute meaningfully to national development.

Partnership and Operational Excellence constitute the other two pillars of the Strategic Plan. The University Bursary continues to demonstrate strong accountability and transparency in financial management. The 2023 financial audit was completed with another unqualified opinion issued by the Auditor-General of Papua New Guinea. This achievement marks an unprecedented nine consecutive years of unqualified audit outcomes for the University.

The administration of the University remains committed to providing a supportive and productive working environment for our academic and professional staff. Their dedication ensures that PNGUoT continues to fulfil its mission of delivering quality education, advancing research, and serving the nation.

Further details of the University’s academic and administrative achievements during the year are presented in this Annual Report.

Professor Ora Renagi OBE

Vice Chancellor