Australia is supporting Papua New Guinean women to advance their research skills and connections with Australian research institutions.
Through this initiative, the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University (RMIT) is providing an intensive training program and workshops in Port Moresby, Lae and Goroka; covering essential topics such as research fundamentals, data analysis and management, report writing, leadership, collaborative research, data-based decision-making, and policy impact.
A highlight will be the opportunity for up to 12 top-performing participants from each location to undertake a 4-week advanced training placement at an Australian research institution later this year. These placements will be carefully aligned with PNG research priorities, facilitating collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Among the more than 40 women researchers taking part in a workshop in Port Moresby this week, is University of Papua New Guinea lecturer Patricia Angopa who is excited about the opportunity. “I have been engaged in collaborative research with other colleagues and have presented during the PNG Updates,” Ms Angopa said. “The basic research skills I have helped me to be more critical in terms of time management, reading other write-ups or journals and has given me the confidence to become a better researcher.”
“I am certain that the workshop will be an opportunity to elevate me further.”
Ms Angopa aims to integrate what she learns through the program into her teaching and hopes to be among those chosen for a placement at an Australian research institution later this year.
The first 5-day workshop in Port Moresby is currently underway until the 24th of this month.
Calls for interest from potential participants for workshops in Lae and Goroka will be issued soon, women researchers from academia, government, and the private sector are encouraged to apply.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100
RMIT Associate Professor Ankita Mishra greets participants of the Australia-funded development program for PNG women researchers in Port Moresby.