Australian High Commission
Papua New Guinea

New UPNG library boosts future leaders

A state-of-the art library was opened at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) recently - providing a boost to academic research and a modern learning environment for future leaders.

The new library is housed in UPNG’s new School of Business & Public Policy, which was constructed with support from the Papua New Guinea – Australia Partnership through the Pacific Leadership and Governance Precinct.

The library was ceremonially opened by UPNG Vice-Chancellor Professor Frank Griffin and Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Benedict David.

Mr David said the new library and School of Business will support UPNG to continue its proud tradition of producing graduates who are technically skilled and capable leaders.

“UPNG has been at the heart of shaping Papua New Guinean leaders for more than 50 years and we are proud to support this to continue through the PNG-Australia Partnership,” he said.

“The quality of these facilities reflects the ambitions of the University and its place as one of the core institutions of the Pacific Leadership and Governance Precinct.

It is a hub for future generations of economic and public policy experts, and a symbol of the strong partnership between our two countries.”

The new library is a branch of the existing Sir Michael Somare Library and provides modern spaces for research, discussion and collaboration.

It is equipped with more than 3,000 books and also provides students and staff access to a range of online databases.

Molly Woko, a technician at the new library, said she shares her expertise with staff and students to fully utilise the new facilities, which can enhance their research and learning.

“It is important for the SBPP to have a library due to the changes in academic environment and the increasing number of students,” she said.

She said, “This new library will enhance learning, teaching and research and most importantly information can be easily accessed when needed and I am privileged to be part of that learning process for students and staff through the my line of work.”

Members of the Precinct’s governing bodies were also in attendance, including Archbishop Douglas Young, Fr Jan Czuba, Jean Kekedo, Serena Sumanop and Professor Lekshmi N. Pillai.

For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100