PNGUoT and NCSL Sign Partnership to Strengthen Industry Training and Graduate Employment Pathways
The Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) and NASFUND Contributors Savings and Loan Society Limited (NCSL) have signed a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen industry-based training, curriculum development and employment pathways for students studying Computer Science and Applied Mathematics.
The agreement which was signed on the 22nd of September, will support the University’s Bachelor of Computer Science and Bachelor of Applied Mathematics programmes by providing opportunities for students to gain practical industry experience and develop skills relevant to the financial services sector.
Vice Chancellor Professor Ora Renagi said collaboration with industry was essential to ensuring that university graduates possessed the knowledge and practical skills required by employers.
“I want to see the partnership strengthen because we will never make use of our graduates until they know what the industry wants,” Professor Renagi said.
He emphasised that universities must work closely with industry to ensure their teaching and research contribute to economic development and improvements in people’s livelihoods.
Under the agreement, NCSL will facilitate Professional Work Experience (PWE) placements for undergraduate students, subject to organisational capacity, and provide workplace supervision and mentorship.
The financial institution will also contribute to curriculum development through industry feedback and advisory support, helping the School of Mathematics and Computer Science align its programmes with current workforce requirements.
NCSL Chief Executive Officer Mr Frans Kootte welcomed the partnership, highlighting the importance of education in developing skilled professionals and strengthening Papua New Guinea’s workforce.
He noted that NCSL already employed several PNGUoT graduates, including staff working in information technology and risk management, demonstrating the relevance of the University’s graduates to the financial services industry.
Beyond student placements, the partnership provides opportunities for research collaboration, digital innovation, professional development, seminars, workshops and guest lectures.
NCSL will also identify and, where possible, support internship and graduate employment opportunities for suitably qualified students.
Head of the School of Mathematics and Computer Science, Dr John Lanta, described the signing as an important development for the School and encouraged students to take responsibility for making the partnership successful.
“We’re going to make this MOU work because your performance in the industry will show that, yes, this thing is going to work,” Dr Lanta said.
He acknowledged the contributions of University management, academic staff and NCSL representatives in bringing the agreement to fruition.
The partnership forms part of PNGUoT’s continuing efforts to strengthen engagement with industry and ensure its academic programmes remain relevant to national workforce needs.
Through the agreement, both institutions aim to provide students with practical learning opportunities while developing stronger connections between university education and professional employment.