Eight young women among ten PNG scholars bound for Australia under STEM program

Minister Counsellor Dr Cate Rogers at the Australian High Commission is having a chat with the 8 young women. (L-R) Davettah Manau, Bachelor of Data Science, Angeliqua Tata, Bachelor of Civil Engineering, Kykie Jebeslyn Komal, Bachelor of Chemical Engineering, Leanne Bartsaka, Bachelor of Maritime Engineering, Uru Tumbik, Bachelor of Electrical Engineering, Alisa Tonove, Bachelor of Environmental Science, Rayvass Kuli, Bachelor of Civil Engineering, and Isadora Bunemiga, Bachelor of Chemical Engineering (NBC News)

Eight young women are among ten outstanding Papua New Guinean students selected to study in Australia under the new Australia Awards STEM pilot program.

The group will pursue degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics at leading universities across Australia, marking a major milestone in education and gender empowerment for PNG.

At the official launch in Port Moresby, Australian High Commissioner Ewen MacDonald said the program marks “a new chapter in PNG and Australia’s shared commitment to education and innovation.”

“You are the first group, the pioneers,” Mr MacDonald told the students. “You’ve been chosen not only for your academic excellence, but also for your leadership and your vision for a better future.”

He said Australia is proud to support PNG’s young people and especially pleased that most of the first group are women. “When women are empowered in STEM, everyone benefits,” he said.

Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra said the scholarships were a milestone for both countries. “These ten students are among the best in Papua New Guinea, the cream of our education system,” he said. “We expect them to study hard, complete their degrees, and come back to help develop our nation.”

He said the partnership with Australia has opened a new path for PNG’s top students to pursue undergraduate studies abroad, expanding beyond the traditional postgraduate focus.

Gideon Nero, who will be taking up Aerospace Engineering, is being congratulated by the Australian High Commission staff while Silas Norman, who will be taking up Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering, looks on (NBC News)

Speaking on behalf of the students, Leanne Bartsaka said the opportunity meant more than financial support; it was a bridge between dreams and reality.

“This scholarship tells every young person that their background does not limit their future,” she said. “We will go with pride, carry our roots with us, and return to help build our country.”

Australia High Commissioner Ewen Macdonald congratulating the scholarship recipients (NBC News)

The students are expected to depart for Australia early next year.