A Dream Realized: PNG University of Technology Achieves Engineering Accreditation

Introduction

As the former Vice-Chancellor of Papua New Guinea University of Technology (2012-2018), the news of the university finally achieving accreditation for all its engineering programs fills me with profound joy and satisfaction. This milestone represents not just an academic achievement, but validates our early vision of transforming UNITECH into a world-class institution. More importantly, it stands as a testament to the resilience of the university community and their unwavering commitment to excellence. As JFK famously said: "Victory has 100 fathers, and defeat is an orphan".

Predecessors: the journey begins

When I assumed leadership in 2012, UNITECH faced formidable challenges that went far beyond academic matters. The institution grappled with systemic corruption, deep-rooted maladministration, and a severe lack of accountability that had permeated every aspect of university operations. 

The path to accreditation required more than just academic improvements; it demanded a complete institutional turnaround. Like a house requiring renovation, we needed to strengthen the foundation before we could build upward.

Our initial focus centered on creating an environment conducive to learning and academic excellence. We became the first university in the world to implement campus-wide broadband internet through the innovative O3B satellite system, 5 years before Starlink made this common, revolutionizing access to global knowledge resources. We equipped students with laptops running Ubuntu software, empowering them with essential IT skills. Perhaps most crucially, we secured the university's first clean financial audit in 2017 - a final achievement that opened doors to substantial industry support and partnerships.

The support of the state was a constant, but it did not provide the extra funding to implement the necessary measures and support. Through strict financial controls, however, we were able to eliminate wastage and make resources available. This was necessary because under the O'Neill government each year the university received less funding, and the grants were on a monthly basis and often delayed. Moreover, we obtained resources from other sources. In particular AusAid, and Prof. Stephen Howes of the Australian National University played a key role in this. Because the specific expertise was often lacking and the workload was too high for existing staff, we had to be supported by a number of foreign and local consultants.

Process: building the foundations

The journey toward accreditation was made possible through crucial partnerships and so many supporters who shared our vision. The Institution of Engineers PNG had initiated the process under my predecessor without any result. Nevertheless, they stood steadfast in their support to bring UNITECH in compliance with international standards and obtain accreditation, while the University of Queensland's Prof. Frank Bullen contributed significantly to faculty development. AusAid, particularly through the Secretary of DHERST Jan Czuba, provided invaluable support. Industry partners including ExxonMobile, Newcrest, and Barrick demonstrated their commitment to building PNG's engineering capacity. The guidance of Prof. Paul Dircks from James Cook University, who openly shared his experiences with accreditation processes, proved instrumental. 

I must acknowledge the late Prof. John Pumwa, and many other academics who served or still serve at UNITECH, whose unwavering dedication to engineering excellence in PNG helped pave the way for today's achievement. My efforts to mobilize resources for faculty training through AusAid, but also New Zealand, India, China and the European Union resulted between 2014 and 2017 in the university sending 77 faculty members abroad for training of which 27 to participate in doctoral programs with the purpose of obtaining a terminal academic degree.

Progress: creating self-sustained improvement processes

To ensure sustainable progress, we established several key initiatives that would outlive any individual's tenure. The Academic Quality Audit (AQAT) team, student evaluation of teaching, and a graduate certificate program in student-centered teaching created a culture of continuous improvement. The External Audit Board and Industrial Advisory Board ensured our programs remained relevant to industry needs, while monthly industry breakfasts fostered crucial relationships with potential employers and supporters. It is by institutionalizing change through these bodies that progress become self-sustained.

The road to success required a delicate balance between maintaining academic standards and fostering innovation. UNITECH implemented a comprehensive quality management system that aligned with international engineering education standards. This included regular curriculum reviews, strengthening laboratory facilities, and establishing research centers focused on PNG's development challenges. In all 13 upgrade projects were successfully complete to refurbish teaching facilities, the library and dormitories with the State's PIP funds. These initiatives created a robust framework for continuous improvement that went beyond mere compliance with accreditation requirements.

End of Pettiness: looking forward

While political interference and personal challenges delayed this achievement by several years beyond my initial timeline of 2020, today's success proves that positive change, once set in motion, becomes irreversible. This accreditation isn't merely about meeting standards - it represents a fundamental shift in PNG's engineering education landscape. It opens doors for graduates, enhances the university's reputation, and contributes to the nation's development through highly qualified engineers.

There is no shame in getting advice from foreigners who have the know-how and experience, in fact that is a sign of intelligence. Partnerships with local industry and support from local stakeholders, however, is essential to make progress a self-sustaining force.

Looking ahead, this milestone should serve as a launching pad rather than a finish line. The real work begins now - maintaining and exceeding these standards, expanding research capabilities, and further strengthening industry partnerships. The younger generation of UNITECH leaders has shown they can rise above the petty politics that once hindered progress, focusing instead on substantive improvements that benefit students and the nation.

To the entire UNITECH community - students, faculty, staff, and supporters - this achievement belongs to you. Your persistence, dedication, and belief in the chance of positive change have made this possible. I want to mention especially the student body, who understood that to be respected as a graduate they needed good lecturers and good programs. In particular, I want to mention those who departed too soon: Joe Kaowai , the SRC president, and Mairen Manub, and all faculty members who supported them, especially the late Alan McLay, Dr. Larry Orsak (PhD University of California Berkeley). In those days, many may have labelled them trouble-makers, but sometimes a bit of good trouble is the price you pay for positive change.

I invite you to share your thoughts on this achievement and your vision for UNITECH's future. How can we ensure this momentum continues? What should be the next major goal for UNITECH's engineering faculty? Let's continue this dialogue and keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible in PNG's higher education landscape.

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