What if these walls could talk? The University of Papua New Guinea, Waigani Campus has seen generations pass through its halls since its establishment in 1965.
Imagine this: It’s 1966 and the first 58 students begin their preliminary courses. The air is thick with anticipation. Papua New Guinea is on the cusp of change. This new university is a beacon of hope.
John Gunther was the inaugural vice-chancellor. Degree courses started in 1967. Just 83 students studied across arts law and science faculties. The first undergraduate degrees were awarded in August 1970. One of those graduates was future Prime Minister Rabbie Namaliu.
The University of Papua New Guinea grew quickly. The National School of Arts joined in 1990. It started as the Creative Arts Centre in 1972. It opened a gallery in 1975.
Did you know that the University of Papua New Guinea library is named after the country’s first Prime Minister? It is called the Michael Somare Library.
Today over 15000 students attend the University of Papua New Guinea each year. Students come from all over Papua New Guinea. Many also come from other Pacific countries. The Solomon Islands are especially well represented.
The University of Papua New Guinea now has a school structure. This helps different subjects work together. You can study medicine law business and many other things here. Problem-based learning is popular.
The Waigani Campus is the main hub. It houses most of the schools. The School of Medicine & Health Sciences is at the Taurama Campus. It is next to the Port Moresby General Hospital.
Many important people have graduated from the University of Papua New Guinea. These include former Prime Ministers like Mekere Morauta Peter O’Neill and Paias Wingti. Also Yolarnie Amepou who is a herpetologist and conservationist.
The University of Papua New Guinea has partnerships worldwide. It is a leading university in the Pacific region. The university helps cultural exchange and understanding.
The University of Papua New Guinea faces challenges. These include funding and infrastructure. But it also has many opportunities. It can grow in areas like sustainable development. It can also grow in technology.
Significant infrastructure changes have taken place recently. The 2015 Pacific Games Village became student dormitories. New buildings have been added too. These include a lecture theatre and a School of Business and Public Policy complex.
The University of Papua New Guinea continues to evolve. It adapts to meet Papua New Guinea’s needs. It remains a vital part of the nation’s future. As you leave this campus think about all the students who have walked these paths. They came here with dreams and ambitions. Many went on to shape the nation. The University of Papua New Guinea has been pivotal.