Six Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) rangers—three women and three men—achieved a milestone as Papua New Guinea’s first graduates of the internationally recognised Ranger Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystems Management.
The graduation ceremony in Alola village marked the culmination of an 18-month journey which included theoretical training, practical exercises in the field and an exchange visit to Australia, under KTA’s Ranger Capacity Development Program (RCDP).
Australia is pleased to support the RCDP through the Kokoda Initiative Partnership.
The rangers will work to preserve and protect the military heritage and environmental values of the Kokoda Track, regulate tourism, and facilitate community engagement and development.
Ranger and mother of four, Ms Stella Kabuni, is proud that her graduation from the ranger program is significant for the women of the Track region saying that “women in our communities now feel heard and included.”
Graduate Senior Ranger, Mr Benjamin Yako included that “with my Certificate III in Ecological Restoration, I’m ready to protect our forests, rivers, and war relics. I thank the Australian Government and KTA for this opportunity to serve my community.”
KTA Acting CEO Mr Julius Wargirai congratulated the rangers for their dedication, resilience, and leadership throughout their three-year study.
“Through your ranger work, you are community leaders with the important task of safeguarding Kokoda’s environmental, military heritage and improving livelihoods and the quality of life for people in your communities,” he said.
Proud graduates! The six Senior Rangers hold their Certificate III in Ecological Restoration, ready to protect and preserve the Kokoda Track and support their communities with new skills and dedication.
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