James Cook University

Vector control product efficacy

Currently, Papua New Guinea has the National Malaria and other Vector Borne Disease Control Program running, with the objective to curb or combat the spread of Malaria and diseases such as Dengue in the country.

According to statistics, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu have the highest number of Vector Borne Diseases in the Pacific Region.

With that in mind, the week-long workshop hosted at the Madang Lodge conducted specifically to train health professionals in Monitoring Vector Control Product Efficacy.

Aust students learn PNG’s way of life

These students studying social science, anthropology and other disciplines are on a 2-week exchange program.

They are learning about PNG's rich, diverse culture and traditions, agricultural methods, bilum-making and building traditional highlands houses.

The program enables these Australian students to experience and understand firsthand how Papua New Guineans live and how our family and tribal systems work.

The students told this newsroom it is a great privilege to actually experience what they read about in textbooks and learning materials.

JCU students to visit PNG

Head of Sport and Exercise Science at JCU, Dr Glen Deakin was in Port Moresby recently to make final recommendations ahead of their arrival.

“We are coming here in June as part of the Columbo plan, and what we are doing is we are bringing a small group of students to work with the High Performance unit of the PNG Sports Foundation.

“The learning experience is part of their studies back home,” Dr Deakin said.

 “The idea is not just doing it at home in familiar surroundings of gyms and fitness centres and so forth.

Twinning project celebrated with universities

Under a Twinning arrangement, a series of learning and research activities are being delivered that focus on enhancing the teaching quality and research capacity across both universities.

UPNG Vice Chancellor Professor Albert Mellam says, 25 UPNG academics are undertaking JCU’s internationally recognised and Australian accredited Graduate Certificate of Education.

He says UPNG and JCU area natural fit when it comes to collaboration; both universities have strong backgrounds in tropical science and knowledge that will facilitate joint research and the exchange of ideas.

Thurston given honorary doctorate

An Honorary Doctor of Letters is one of the highest honours that the Townsville university can bestow and completes an unforgettable year for Thurston who won the Telstra Premiership with the Cowboys, the State of Origin shield with Queensland, a record third Golden Boot as the world's best player and also married long-time partner Samantha Lynch.

James Cook University’s Chancellor, Lt. Gen. John Grey AC (Retired) said Thurston deserved to be recognised for the positive influence that stretches far beyond the football field.