PNGUoT and PNGDF Partner to Run Annual Military Boot Camps for Students: MoA Signed to Promote Discipline and Character Development Among University Students
By Phyllia PISEP
The Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Joint Forces College (JFC) of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) to host annual military boot camps at Igam Barracks in Lae, aimed at promoting student discipline and leadership development.
The agreement, signed on June 6, formalizes the PNGUoT Military Boot Camps Program, which began in 2024. The boot camps are voluntary, week-long training sessions tailored for students to participate in military-style exercises and leadership activities under the guidance of JFC personnel.
The MoA outlines the primary goals of the boot camp, including addressing increasing antisocial behavior among students, encouraging behavioral change, and fostering a culture of discipline and integrity aligned with the mission and vision of both the JFC and PNGUoT.
The training will focus on character development using the JFC’s current training curriculum, specifically designed to prepare students for leadership and professional responsibilities.
PNGUoT’s Registrar Veronica Thomas applauded the agreement, stating, “Programs like this help groom our students in discipline and build strong character. We hope to send in more students after this MoA signing in the coming years.”
Deputy Vice Chancellor, who was Acting Vice Chancellor during the MoA signing, emphasized the need for student discipline initiatives.
“This is a great step forward for us as a University to build our students’ character and reputation,” he said.
Commandant of JFC, Captain (NAVY) Alexson Hannema, praised the partnership and its long-term benefits.
“These initiatives aim to positively influence students’ behavior by placing emphasis on upholding higher standards of morals, ethics, and discipline while attending their professional studies at PNGUoT. This will also prepare them for future roles in the development of Papua New Guinea,” he said.
The PNGUoT Military Boot Camp Program will continue to be an annual event, strengthening the collaboration between the University and the Papua New Guinea Defense Force to nurture disciplined, responsible, and future-ready students.