THE University of Goroka (UOG) will introduce compulsory English language courses for all first-year students starting starting next year (2025).
This initiative, announced by Vice Chancellor Dr. Teng Waninga, is part of a broader effort to ensure graduates are highly competent and proficient in English, meeting the demands of industries in Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific region.
Dr. Waninga detailed the new requirements, stating that all incoming first-year students will be required to take an English Language Remedial and Enrichment course during their first semester.
In the second semester, students will then enroll in a compulsory course titled English for Academic Purposes. This course is designed to equip students with the necessary language skills to succeed in their specialized programmes.
Beyond these specific courses, English language proficiency will be emphasized across the university’s curriculum.
“English language will also be promoted in other courses through the provision of generic assessment rubrics,” Dr.Waninga explained.
These rubrics will incorporate 6 to 10 percent of English language skills assessment in both undergraduate and postgraduate studies at all levels of study.
“The purpose is for students to be highly competent and proficient in the usage and application of English language, focused on the needs of the industry in PNG and the Pacific region at large,” Dr. Waninga said.