UPNG inks deal with Goroka college

Students who complete the diploma in business (accounting) program at the Goroka Technical College can now further their studies at the University of PNG.

This is now possible following the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding between the UPNG acting vice chancellor, Vincent Malaibe, and the college principal, Sogerifa Lutago.

In a statement, UPNG said: “Under this MOU, students who complete the diploma program will be able to enrol and complete the bachelor of accounting degree program at UPNG within two years. 

“They will be eligible to study as internal students or external students. This MOU is valid for the next three years, and is subject to review and renewal.”

Malaibe described this as a good and workable model to initiate a partnership with technical and business colleges and help their graduates gain access to a university for further studies.

“Without having such an arrangement, it would be impossible for these young graduates to pursue further studies after their diploma studies,” he stated. 

The executive dean, School of Business and Public Policy, Professor Lekshmi Pillai, said the Accounting Division, which initiated this MOU, had undertaken a rigorous academic audit of the program prior to granting accreditation, with the subsequent approval of the University Senate. 

He further added that an annual academic audit is now in place to maintain the quality of the program at the college. 

Students who complete the Diploma Program at Goroka Technical College are required to apply for university admission. They will be selected by applying the University’s normal selection process. 

Bandara, head of the Accounting Division, said the MOU also paves the way to upgrade the GTC lecturers’ skills and knowledge by way of inservice courses and higher degrees, and setting up a study centre for external studies.  

The signing ceremony was held in the UPNG Council room, and was witnessed by Nakanat Kote, Acting Registrar of UPNG, Rosa Apelis, First Assistant Secretary TEVT Curriculum and E-Learning, Department of Education, senior college staff and senior management and academics of UPNG.

(From left: UPNG acting vice chancellor, Vincent Malaibe, with college principal, Sogerifa Lutago)

Author: 
Press Release