OFFICERS UNDERTAKE MASTERS AT UPNG

Two officers from the Department of Personnel Management are taking a significant step forward in advancing public sector excellence through their participation in the Master of Economics and Public Policy program at the University of Papua New Guinea.

The officers, Ms. Joyce Koi and Mr. Robert Richard, are among a select group of students undertaking the program under the ANU–UPNG Partnership, supported by the Australian Government through the PNG–Australia partnership. The postgraduate course focuses on equipping professionals with advanced analytical and policy-making skills to address national economic and governance challenges.

The inclusion of DPM officers reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to developing a competent, well-informed, and policy-driven public service workforce.

Secretary Ms Taies Sansan has welcomed the officers’ participation, noting that human capital development remains a cornerstone of public sector reform.

“Continuous learning and skills enhancement are essential to achieving transparency, efficiency, and innovation across government institutions,” Ms Sansan said.

“We are proud to see our officers investing in education that directly contributes to improved policy formulation and service delivery.”

The ANU–UPNG Partnership has been instrumental in fostering collaboration between Papua New Guinea and Australia in higher education and research.

The program merges global economic knowledge with local realities, allowing participants to analyze critical issues such as inflation management, fiscal responsibility, and equitable development.

Through this initiative, students like Ms Koi and Mr Richard are expected to bring new insights and practical solutions back to their workplaces, contributing to evidence-based decision-making within the public service.

Program coordinators highlighted that the partnership also strengthens institutional capacity by connecting UPNG’s academic excellence with ANU’s global expertise, ensuring that PNG’s future policy leaders are equipped to tackle emerging development challenges.

As PNG continues its journey toward economic resilience and improved governance, this capacity-building program underscores the government’s vision for a professional and future-focused public service.