THROUGH the PNG–Australia Partnership, future teachers at the University of Goroka will have greater opportunities for practical learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in a new teaching laboratory.
As PNG’s largest teacher education institution, the University of Goroka plays an important role in preparing teachers for schools across the country.
The new STEM Teaching Laboratory will give lecturers and students a dedicated space to strengthen practical teaching approaches and build the skills needed to make STEM subjects more engaging and relevant in the classroom.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Goroka, Dr. Teng Waninga said the opening of the STEM Teaching Laboratory marks an important milestone for the University of Goroka as it strengthens its vision for excellence in STEM education.
“This state-of-the-art facility will support our efforts to equip future generations with the skills, knowledge and innovation needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. I would like to thank the Australian High Commission and Australia Awards for their longstanding partnership and support.
Together, we have worked to strengthen programs and opportunities that contribute to the development of quality education in Papua New Guinea and across the Pacific,” he said.
As part of its long-term commitment to education in PNG, the PNG–Australia Partnership, through Australia Awards, has funded essential laboratory equipment for the University of Goroka. This investment in quality infrastructure supports practical science teaching and learning and strengthens PNG’s teacher education system.
This includes work with the Queensland University of Technology to strengthen STEM teacher education, training in Australia and collaboration on course content, teaching approaches and professional development.
The laboratory is an investment in PNG’s future teachers, helping build the skills and practical teaching approaches needed to improve STEM learning for students in classrooms across the country.
It also reflects Australia’s commitment to working with Papua New Guinean institutions to strengthen locally led capability and the quality of tertiary education.
By investing together in people, infrastructure and institutions, Australia and PNG are strengthening tertiary education to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and research that responds to PNG’s evolving education and workforce needs.