MIKAL Silas is among the young Papua New Guineans building practical skills and professional experience through Australia’s Economic and Social Infrastructure Program (ESIP).
She recently joined a technical from Pawarim Komuniti Partnerships (PKP) program, on a trip to Australia to carry out Factory Acceptance Testing on modular standalone solar systems bound for Papua New Guinea.
Factory Acceptance Testing is a critical step in the procurement process that enables technical teams to verify the final compliance and performance of solar systems before they leave the factory, ensuring they are ready for deployment.
The visit gave Mikal firsthand exposure to the rigorous processes behind delivering reliable energy infrastructure and highlighted the scale of coordination required to bring renewable energy solutions to some of the country’s most remote locations.
“Taking part in inspection and testing the modular solar systems showed me how important quality assurance is and how engineering decisions made in a far-off factory can affect communities thousands of kilometres away,” said Mikal.
Mikal has been working with PKP since joining the Graduate Development Program in October 2025. The program builds skills by giving graduates hands-on experience with infrastructure projects across PNG.
“Even though I’m only six months into the program, it has already had a big impact on me. We’re encouraged to ask questions, and the professional, supportive environment means we’re not afraid to make mistakes. I’m learning quickly, and I’m much more confident,” said Mikal.
The Australian Government is working with the PNG Government and local partners to bring solar energy to some of PNG’s remotest communities. Since 2021, the program has delivered brought clean, reliable electricity to more than 291,000 people across seven provinces.
“Being part of this program has shown me how access to electricity improves people’s lives. Reliable solar power makes a real difference in rural communities, and I’m proud to be part of that journey,” said Mikal.
Australia remains committed to supporting practical locally led efforts that improve access to reliable energy, strengthen essential services and drive sustainable economic growth across Papua New Guinea.