Medical University Act ready for approval

The School of Medicine and Health Sciences [SMHS] at the University of Papua New Guinea is set to become a standalone university by 2025, pending parliamentary approval of the University of Medicine and Health Sciences Act.

Professor Nakapi Tefuarani, Executive Dean of SMHS, confirmed that the Act is ready for submission to Parliament.

“The Act is ready to go to Parliament. Once it is approved, the university will officially separate by the end of November. Starting January next year, we will operate as an independent University of Medicine and Health Sciences,” Professor Tefuarani stated.

A technical team has worked diligently for years to finalize the Act, which grants the new university its authority.

Professor Tefuarani emphasized the urgent need for this transition, given the critical shortage of medical professionals in Papua New Guinea.

“Our country’s population has grown, but we still lack enough medical staff. The government must prioritize this Act to address the shortage.

"This new university is crucial, and it must happen now,” he said.

The new institution will begin enrolling students directly from Grade 12.

To support the university's growth, Professor Tefuarani announced plans to significantly increase staff numbers, rising from 150 to 800 over the next five to ten years.

“We will recruit more staff, including international professionals, to address the current shortfall and meet the demand. This university will be large and influential,” he added.

The technical team is also working to ensure that the programs meet international standards.

“We are collaborating with the World Federation to upgrade both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. By May 2025, we aim to achieve international recognition for these programs,” Professor Tefuarani explained.

Meanwhile, preparations for the university’s launch include a significant infrastructure upgrade.