PNGUoT Women Researchers Complete Capacity Development Program
Ten women academics from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) have completed the Australian Government-supported Strongim Risets Kapasiti Bilong Ol Meri (SRKBOM) program, aimed at strengthening women’s research capabilities and professional networks in Papua New Guinea.
The academics were part of a cohort of women researchers from different institutions who participated in the program, which provided training in research methodologies, academic writing, publication processes and professional collaboration.
Speaking on behalf of participants during the program’s closing ceremony at the Lae International Hotel on Thursday, 8th of October , PNGUoT academic Betty Tiko reflected on the knowledge and confidence gained throughout the training.
“This journey has been more than a training journey, it has been a transformation for us,” she said.
She highlighted the practical skills participants had developed, including quantitative and qualitative research methods, qualitative research, academic writing, searching academic databases, skills on literature search referencing and publication skills.
The program commenced with its initial training in November 2025, followed by an Australian component in June 2026 and a final four-day workshop in Lae.
Delivered with the involvement of RMIT University and supported by the Australian Government, the initiative brought together women researchers from different academic and research institutions to strengthen their research capabilities and establish professional networks.
The Australian component also provided opportunities for participants to engage in research activities, exchange knowledge and develop connections with researchers and institutions in Australia.
Reflecting on her experience, Ms Tiko acknowledged that the training had strengthened her confidence to pursue academic publication, despite experiencing a journal rejection.
She encouraged fellow participants to continue applying and sharing their knowledge, emphasising that research capabilities improve through consistent practice and collaboration.
For PNGUoT, the participation of its 10 women academics provides an opportunity to strengthen research practices within the University through the application and sharing of knowledge gained during the program.
The closing ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants, marking the completion of the training and the beginning of opportunities to apply their skills within their respective institutions.
